-Georgia Department of Labor-
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the one-county Rome Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded labor force and employment gains in May, with an unemployment rate of 3.0%, up two-tenths of a percentage point over the month. A year ago, the rate was 3.4%.
The unemployment rate in Gordon County was 2.8%, up from 2.5% in April.
In Bartow County, the jobless rate went from 2.7% to 3% over the month.
Polk County checked in at 2.9%, up from 2.7%, and Chattooga County was at 3.8%, up from 3.7%
“Every May, a new wave of talent enters Georgia’s workforce as thousands of graduates begin their career search. This is what a growing talent pipeline looks like, and it is why companies keep investing here year after year,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “With more than 5 million jobs across our state, there is a place for every Georgian, from the graduate landing a first role to the seasoned professional taking the next step. That is the kind of opportunity you can build a life on, and we will keep it within reach in every corner of our state.”
The labor force in Rome increased by 174 over the month and 160 from May 2025, reaching 48,428.
Rome finished the month with 46,976 employed residents, up 49 over the month and 341 from May 2025.
Rome ended May with 47,100 jobs, unchanged over the month and down 500 from the same time last year.
In May, initial unemployment claims in Rome decreased by 151 from the previous month and decreased by 217 from the same month a year ago, totaling 103.
