Metro Savannah’s unemployment rate was unchanged from June to July at 4.7 percent. In July 2016, the rate was 5.4 percent.

“While Metro Savannah’s rate was unchanged, 1,277 more people went back to work,” said Commissioner Mark Butler. “It’s great to see Savannah’s economy growing. Since July 2016, Savannah has gained 4,300 jobs, a 2.4 percent growth rate.”

Metro Savannah’s over-the-year job growth came mostly in leisure and hospitality, government, education and health services, professional and business services, and information services.

From June to July, Metro Savannah lost 600 jobs, a 0.3 percent decline, which decreased the total number of jobs to 180,400.

“In June, Metro Savannah added jobs,” said Commissioner Butler. “Due to the fact that a lot of summer jobs are held by students, it’s not surprising to see the July decline in jobs, especially with the earlier school start dates this year.”

Unemployment claims were up by 53, or 8 percent, to 719. Claims were up in administrative and support services, accommodations and food services, and professional and technical services. Over the year, claims were down by 122, or 14.5 percent, from 841 in July 2016.

The total number of employed residents in Metro Savannah rose by 1,277 to 178,454 from June to July.

“There were 5,292 more Metro Savannah residents employed than in July 2016,” said Commissioner Butler. “I’m pleased to see we have more people in Savannah employed and contributing to Georgia’s continued environment of economic opportunity.”

Employ Georgia, the GDOL’s online job listing service at employgeorgia.com showed 3,448 new active job postings in Savannah for July.