Valdosta’s unemployment rate rises during summer job market

VALDOSTA – The Georgia Department of Labor reports that Valdosta’s unemployment rate rises as seasonal and student workers enter the summer job market.

Release:

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Valdosta recorded an unemployment rate of 4.6 percent in June, up eight-tenths of a percent over-the-month. A year ago, the rate was 3.9 percent.

“Georgia is where opportunities abound, and innovation thrives,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “Every summer, our students and seasonal workers inject our workforce with a fresh wave of talent and energy. Although this may lead to a temporary rise in unemployment, their contributions are the driving force behind our businesses’ success and the engine propelling our economy forward. From startups to major corporations, Georgia’s on the right track toward creating more jobs and building a stronger, more prosperous future for all hardworking Georgians.”

The labor force increased in Valdosta by 440 and ended the month with 63,274. That number went up by 516 when compared to June of 2023.

Valdosta finished the month with 60,365 employed residents. That number decreased by 72 over-the-month and went up by 42 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Valdosta ended June with 56,700 jobs. That number went up by 400 from May to June and went up by 100 when compared to this time last year.

In June, initial unemployment claims increased by 16 in Valdosta. When you compare June 2024 claims to June 2023, claims were up by 4, totaling 243

Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
Communications@gdol.ga.gov

(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Shawna Mercer
Email: Shawna.mercer@gdol.ga.gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at dol.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.