Metro Valdosta Reports September Gains in Labor Force, Employment and Jobs
Friday, October 23rd, 2026
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 September. The over-the-month unemployment rate rose two-tenths of a percentage point to 4.0%, up from 3.7% a year ago.
“Momentum is building across Georgia,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “With sustained regional growth, our strong economy and competitive workforce drive continuous opportunity. We are building the Top State for Talent to keep Georgia the clear choice for job creators and families alike.”
The labor force in Valdosta increased by 1,197 over the month to 63,386. That number increased by 2,221 over the year.
Valdosta finished September with 60,878 employed residents, up 1,029 over the month and 2,002 over the year.
Valdosta ended September with 57,200 jobs, up 300 over the month and 900 over the year.
In September, initial unemployment claims decreased by 32 over the month and 42 over the year, totaling 161.
Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.ga.gov
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685
Media Contacts:
Sr. Communications Specialist, Annalise Morning
Email: Annalise.Morning@gdol.
Phone Number: 470-733-6638
Chief Communications Officer, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].
Phone Number: 678-350-6878
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.
Follow the Georgia Department of Labor on social media for additional news and updates.
