Metro Hinesville Sees Rise in January Unemployment

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Monday, April 13th, 2026

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the two-county Hinesville Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded an unemployment rate of 4.0% in January, up four-tenths over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.8%. January’s increases in unemployment rates across the state reflect historical patterns as many seasonal and holiday-related positions come to an end. 

 “Georgia’s diversified economy is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “That mix of industries and talent allows us to respond quickly to shifting workforce demands across sectors while continuing to expand opportunity for hardworking Georgians — a strength that helps Georgia remain a top state for business and talent.”
 

The labor force in Hinesville decreased by 187 over the month and ended at 31,299. That number decreased by 490 compared to the same time last year.
 

Hinesville finished January with 30,046 employed residents, down 294 over the month and down 528 from January 2025.
 

Hinesville ended January with 21,600 jobs. That number was down 500 over the month and was down 600 over the year.
 

In January, initial unemployment claims decreased by 33 over the previous month and decreased by 24 from the same month a year ago, totaling 119. 

Contact Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected].gov
Phone Number: 678-350-6878

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail 

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.