Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Hinesville recorded an unemployment rate of 3.5 percent in January, up seven-tenths of a percent over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.6 percent. Due to seasonal factors from December to January, data that is not seasonally adjusted typically shows an increase in unemployment – a seasonal trend that happens each year.

“Despite a nationwide pandemic and challenging economic times, continued investments in Georgia’s labor force and thriving business community have kept our economy strong,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “As labor commissioner, it is my No. 1 priority to help more Georgians get back to work and fill the jobs that our businesses need.”

The labor force increased in Hinesville by 216 and ended the month with 34,759. That number increased by 118 when compared to January of 2022.

Hinesville finished the month with 33,541 employed residents. That number decreased by 19 over the month and went up by 137 when compared to the same time a year ago.

Hinesville ended January with 21,900 jobs. Jobs were down by 200 from December to January and up by 700 when compared to January 2022.

The number of unemployment claims went up by 23 percent in Hinesville in January. When compared to last January, claims were up by about 14 percent.