Metro Valdosta Sees Drop in Unemployment Rate

Cityscape showing employment growth in Metro Valdosta

News Summary

Metro Valdosta’s unemployment rate has fallen to 4% as reported by the Georgia Department of Labor, down from 4.6% last year. The labor force increased by 331, while the number of employed residents grew by 446 compared to the previous month. Despite an overall positive trend, year-over-year job counts declined. Ongoing workforce strategies are credited for improvements in Georgia’s labor market, with all metro areas reporting lower unemployment rates.

Metro Valdosta has seen its unemployment rate drop to 4% in August 2025, as reported by the Georgia Department of Labor. This marks a decrease of two-tenths of a percentage point from July and is significantly lower than the 4.6% rate recorded during the same month last year.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes has pointed out the state’s position as No. 1 for business and emphasized the effectiveness of ongoing workforce strategies. All metro areas within the state have also reported lower unemployment rates compared to the previous year, suggesting an overall improvement in the labor market across Georgia.

The labor force in Metro Valdosta grew by 331 people from the previous month, bringing the total to 60,318 individuals. However, this figure represents a decrease of 1,182 participants compared to August 2024. Additionally, the number of employed residents in Valdosta increased to 57,908, which is 446 more than in July but 735 less than a year ago. The total job count in Valdosta stands at 56,500, reflecting a monthly gain of 500 jobs but a decline of 400 positions year-over-year.

Initial unemployment claims in Metro Valdosta reduced by 44 from July, and there was a slight year-over-year decrease of 2 claims, culminating in a total of 205 claims in August.

This positive trend in the labor market highlights the effectiveness of Georgia’s workforce strategies aimed at creating jobs and improving employment opportunities. The state’s commitment to bettering the labor market is evident through these statistics and is indicative of a broader economic uplift across the region.

For residents seeking assistance with unemployment benefits, they are encouraged to contact 877-709-8185 or visit the Georgia Department of Labor’s MyUI Claimant Portal.

The evident improvements in Metro Valdosta’s employment landscape suggest encouraging prospects for future economic growth and labor market stability. The combination of increased job availability and a positive shift in unemployment rates reflects a robust recovery and ongoing development within the workforce sector.

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STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER

AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.

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