The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Rome recorded an unemployment rate of 3.4 percent in December, unchanged from the previous month. A year ago, the rate was 3.6 percent.

“Georgia’s success is driven by its people, and we remain committed to supporting them every step of the way," said GDOL Interim Commissioner Louis DeBroux. "While job growth has faced challenges this month, key industries across the state continue to offer opportunities for hardworking Georgians. Even with the rise in unemployment, our mission remains clear—helping Georgia’s workers find and keep meaningful employment in every corner of our state.”

The labor force in Rome increased by 21 over the month and by 341 over the year, reaching 48,313.

Rome finished the month with 46,663 employed residents, up by 23 over the month and up by 420 compared to the same time last year.

Rome ended January with 47,300 jobs. This marked a decrease of 600 over the month but an increase of 800 over the year.

In January, initial unemployment claims in Rome decreased by 137 over the month and were down by 166 compared to the same month last year, totaling 786.