GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR: OCTOBER UNEMPLOYMENT RATES ROSE SLIGHTLY FOR ROME AND NORTHWEST GEORGIA

Media release from the Georgia Department of Labor:

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Rome recorded an unemployment rate of 3.5 percent in October, up three-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 2.9 percent.

“While most regions across Georgia experienced a slight uptick in unemployment, our state continues to lead the way with an unemployment rate well below the national average,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “As job growth slows across the nation, Georgia’s resilience shines through—driven by commonsense policies that prioritize opportunity, growth, and a workforce ready to lead. This stability proves that Georgia’s economy is built not just to withstand challenges but to thrive for generations to come.”

The labor force increased in Rome by 74 and ended the month with 48,735. That number went up by 718 when compared to October of 2023.

Rome finished the month with 47,037 employed residents. That number decreased by 83 over-the-month and rose by 415 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Rome ended October with 48,300 jobs, an all-time high. That number went up by 200 over-the-month and rose by 600 when compared to this time last year.

In October, initial unemployment claims increased by 73 in Rome. When you compare October 2024 claims to October 2023, claims were up by 73, totaling 229.

Northwest Georgia

  • The unemployment rate was up one-tenth to 3.4 percent over-the-month, the rate was 3.0 percent one year ago.
  • The labor force was down 368 over-the-month and up 7,334 over-the-year, to 448,048.
  • The number of employed was down 1,097 over-the-month and up 5,176 over-the-year, to 432,631.
  • Initial claims were up 157 over-the-month and up 552 over-the-year, to 2,436.

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff atdol.georgia.gov/email-us. 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.