Georgia’s labor force and employment reached record highs in February, according to the Georgia Department of Labor. The state’s labor force rose to 5.45 million, while employment climbed to 5.25 million. The unemployment rate was 3.6%, below the national average but slightly higher than a year ago.
The labor force increased by more than 5,400 over the month and nearly 39,500 over the year. Employment also rose, adding nearly 4,000 jobs in February and more than 28,000 over the past 12 months.
Despite overall gains, total jobs declined by 4,200 in February, marking the second consecutive monthly decrease. Job losses were reported in construction, retail trade, transportation, warehousing and utilities, accommodation and food services, and professional services.
Health care and social assistance led growth, reaching a record 638,400 jobs and posting the largest gains both monthly and annually. Initial unemployment claims fell to 16,551, the lowest level since November 2025.
