The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the four-county Valdosta Metropolitan Statistical Area saw gains in its labor force, employment and jobs in August. The over-the-month unemployment rate rose two-tenths of a percentage point to 3.8%, down from 4.1% a year ago.

“Georgia’s economy continues to deliver,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes. “Across the state, we’re seeing a strong labor force and regional growth that reflects an economy rewarding hard work, encouraging job creation and removing unnecessary barriers. As we build Georgia into a Top State for Talent, we’re creating a place where people can work, businesses can invest and communities can thrive.”

The labor force in Valdosta increased by 932 over the month to 62,193. That number increased by 1,463 over the year.



Valdosta finished August with 59,855 employed residents, up 804 over the month and 1,606 over the year.



Valdosta ended August with 57,000 jobs, up 800 over the month and 300 over the year.



In August, initial unemployment claims decreased by 21 over the month and 12 over the year, totaling 193.