Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Savannah recorded an unemployment rate of 2.5 percent in December, down one-tenth of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 2.8 percent.

“Georgia’s highly-skilled workforce and business-friendly environment continues to drive positive economic growth across all corners of the state,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “With the unemployment rate trending lower than the national average, we are well-positioned to help businesses remain competitive and find top-tier talent.”

The labor force decreased in Savannah by 873 and ended the month with 198,853. That number decreased by 899 when compared to December of 2021.

Savannah finished the month with 193,933 employed residents. That number decreased by 581 over the month and went down 132 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Savannah ended December with 202,000 jobs. That number decreased by 1,100 from November to December and went up by 5,200 when compared to this time last year.

The number of unemployment claims went down by 1 percent in Savannah in December. When compared to last December, claims were up by about 8 percent.