The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the four-county Valdosta Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded an unemployment rate of 4.1% in June, up seven-tenths of a percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 4.2%. 

 

“June brings the temporary seasonal changes we see every year as schools let out for the summer, but as Georgia’s workforce continues to grow, our year-over-year trends remain stable,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “Short-term fluctuations are normal in a resilient economy, and the bigger picture is clear: Georgia remains a state where opportunity is within reach, hard work is rewarded, and every Georgian has the chance to build a better life.”

The labor force in Valdosta decreased by 496 over the month to 61,257. That number increased by 170 over the year.



Valdosta finished June with 58,764 employed residents, down 859 over the month and up 223 over the year.



Valdosta ended June with 56,500 jobs, down 300 over the month and 500 over the year.

 

 

In June, initial unemployment claims increased by 25 over the month and decreased by 21 over the year, totaling 186. 

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail.

For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide. 

For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.