Georgia loses jobs in March, but unemployment rate steady
After two strong months, Georgia's economy lost jobs in March.
The number of jobs dropped by 7,400 during the month after adding 9,200 in January and 18,300 in February.
The unemployment rate, which is calculated from a different, less extensive survey, held steady at 4.4 percent, according to a report issued Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor.
The only sectors growing were logistics and healthcare, according to the Labor Department. Corporate jobs were down.
Unfortunately, many of those who were unemployed before are still looking: Roughly 30 percent of the jobless people in the state have been out of work for more than six months.
The April report should get a close look: The state has not lost jobs for two consecutive months since 2011.
Georgia economy in March
Number of jobs: -7,400
Unemployment rate: 4.4 percent, unchanged
Number of unemployed: 226,020
Growing sectors: logistics, healthcare
Shrinking sectors: corporate, technology, hospitality
Georgia economy, in perspective
Highest unemployment rate in March: 10.6 percent, 2010
Lowest unemployment rate in March: 3.6 percent, 2001
Unemployed, more than six months: 64,400
Jobs added in past 12 months: 65,200
Source: Georgia Department of Labor
About the Author
Michael E. Kanell, the AJC's economics writer, has been reporting on jobs, housing and the economy at the AJC for nearly two decades. He has appeared on television and radio to analyze and report on business and economic developments.
