The Georgia Department of Labor reported Thursday that the four-county Athens Metropolitan Area saw growth in its labor force, employment and job numbers in February.
The unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.2%, up one-tenth of a percentage point from January, matching the rate recorded one year ago.
According to the report, the Athens labor force increased by 1,096 over the month and by 3,680 over the year, reaching 113,677. Employment also rose, with 110,038 residents working in February, an increase of 963 from January and 3,534 compared to the same time last year.
Total jobs in the Athens area climbed to 108,200, reflecting a monthly gain of 500 and an annual increase of 2,500.
Initial unemployment claims declined, falling by 101 over the month and 23 year over the year, totaling 169 in February.
