Unemployment Numbers Creep Up in Metro Atlanta

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) reported that the unemployment rate in the metro Atlanta area rose to a preliminary unadjusted rate of 7.0 percent in November, up 2.9 percentage points over the year from November of 2007.

The jobless rate in metro Atlanta rose three-tenths of one percentage point from a revised 6.7 percent in October. Meanwhile, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 7.5 percent in November, the highest rate since July 1983 when it was also 7.5 percent. The jobless rate was up 3.0 percentage points from 4.5 percent at this same time last year. The November unemployment rate was up six-tenths of one percentage point from a revised 6.9 percent in October. The state rate remained above the national rate of 6.7 percent for the 10th straight month. At present, 365,244 unemployed Georgians are looking for work.

“My Christmas Wish is that all Georgians will embrace the true meaning of this holiday season,” said State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond. “During this unprecedented economic crisis, we should remember to give the gift of love and encouragement to unemployed family members and friends. It is also important to reassure those facing economic uncertainty that expensive gifts they can ill-afford to purchase are not expected or needed.”

Thurmond encouraged jobseekers to take advantage of the employment services offered by the Georgia Department of Labor. The department’s Web site www.dol.state.ga.us includes easily accessible listings of current job openings, as well as information about job search, career planning, and education and training opportunities. A complete listing of all 53 career centers is also provided.

In addition, Thurmond called on Georgians to consider upgrading their skills and employability by enrolling at one of the state’s two-year colleges and technical colleges.

Over the last year, the number of payroll jobs in Georgia decreased 94,400 or 2.3 percent. Manufacturing, construction, and trade, along with administrative and support services, including temporary employment agencies, were the hardest hit industries. In metro Atlanta, the number of jobs in November dropped 67,800, or 2.7 percentage points, from 2,489,800 to 2,422,000. From October to November, the number of jobs in metro Atlanta declined 11,700.

The local area unemployment rates are not seasonally adjusted.