Georgia, with a 7.2 percent unemployment rate, lost its dubious distinction last month as the state with the nation’s highest jobless rate. That questionable honor now belongs to Mississippi coming in with a 7.3 percent rate, according to statistics released Friday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Georgia shares the second-worst spot with California, also notching a 7.2 percent rate.

It could be worse: the District of Columbia, with a 7.4 percent rate, takes the overall top spot nationwide, the BLS says.

Georgia led the nation with the worst unemployment rate from August to October.

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An aerial image shows the main square at Atlantic Station with the Atlanta skyline in the background on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. 
(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

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Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez