Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said Thursday that Dalton recorded an unemployment rate of 4 percent in February, down one percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.8 percent.
"Pro-growth policies that foster innovation and drive success are why Georgia remains the No. 1 state for business and a perennial powerhouse in talent development," said Commissioner Thompson. "Even with a slowing nationwide economy, communities across Georgia continue to thrive with low unemployment and high job growth."
The labor force decreased in Dalton by 320 and ended the month with 58,801. That number decreased by 365 when compared to February of 2022.
Dalton finished the month with 56,435 employed residents. That number increased by 278 over the month and went down by 505 when compared to the same time a year ago.
Dalton ended February with 67,500 jobs. That number went up by 200 from January to February and increased by 700 when compared to this time last year.
Historically, claims increase every January due to temporary seasonal manufacturing shutdowns and the retail sector shedding workers hired for the holiday season. In February, initial unemployment claims decreased by 75 percent in Dalton, dropping back to normal levels. When you compare February 2023 claims to February 2022, claims were up by about 133 percent.