Metro Albany’s unemployment rate decreased to 6 percent in July.

The rate is down one-tenth of a percentage point from 6.1 percent in June. In July 2016, the rate was 6.7 percent.

Metro Albany’s rate declined as the number of unemployed residents fell by 40 to 4,048.

However, since July 2016, Albany has gained 1,100 jobs, a 1.8 percent growth rate.

Metro Albany’s over-the-year job growth came in the private service-related industries such as professional and business services and with the federal government.

From June to July, Metro Albany lost 600 jobs, a 0.6 percent decline, which decreased the total number of jobs to 61,700.

“Due to the fact that a lot of summer jobs are held by students, it’s not surprising to see the July decline in jobs, especially with the earlier school start dates this year,” Commissioner Butler said.

Unemployment claims were down by 52, or 11.7 percent, to 391. Claims were down in manufacturing. Over the year, claims were down by 194, or 33.2 percent, from 585 in July 2016.

“There were 1,845 more Metro Albany residents employed than in July 2016,” said Commissioner Butler. “I’m pleased to see we have more people in Albany employed and contributing to Georgia’s continued environment of economic opportunity.”

Employ Georgia, the GDOL’s online job listing service at employgeorgia.com showed 962 new active job postings in Albany for July.