Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Albany recorded an unemployment rate of 3.5 percent in December, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.7 percent.

“Georgia’s highly-skilled workforce and business-friendly environment continues to drive positive economic growth across all corners of the state,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With the unemployment rate trending lower than the national average, we are well-positioned to help businesses remain competitive and find top-tier talent.”

The labor force decreased in Albany by 991 and ended the month with 64,412. That number went down by 1,785 when compared to December of 2021.

Albany finished the month with 62,159 employed residents. That number decreased by 867 over the month and dropped by 1,615 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Albany ended December with 62,800 jobs. That number went down 700 from November to December and went up 200 when compared to this time last year.

The number of unemployment claims increased by 7 percent in Albany in December. When compared to last December, claims were up by about 30 percent.