Georgia's unemployment rate ticks up slightly in June

(The Center Square) — Georgia's June unemployment rate inched up slightly but remains below the national unemployment rate, according to new numbers that state labor officials released on Thursday.

June's unemployment rate of 3.3% was up from May's revised 3.2% rate but below the national rate of 4.1%. Numbers from the Georgia Department of Labor show the state's unemployment rate has hovered in the 3% range since late 2021 as the COVID-19 pandemic eased.

"School's out, and Georgia is thriving like never before," Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said in a statement. "Our students infuse our workforce with new talent and energy each summer. While this may temporarily increase seasonal unemployment, the fresh skills and enthusiasm these young workers bring to the local economy are key to cultivating an economy that's built to last."

According to the latest numbers, the Peach State's labor force participation rate increased to 61.7% from 61.6% in May . Numbers from the Georgia Department of Labor show the state's labor participation rate has hovered in the 61% range since 2021.

While the rate is higher than it was amid the pandemic, it has steadily decreased over the past 15 years. Additionally, the rate slightly lagged the national labor participation rate, which stood at 62.6% in June .