MOULTRIE, Ga. (WALB) — While inflation and unemployment rose across the United States in 2025, Moultrie and Colquitt County saw their unemployment rate drop from 3.9% to 3.4%.

The local economic success stands in contrast to national trends. Inflation climbed nearly 3% nationwide, and unemployment rose to almost 4.5%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Moultrie City Manager Peter Dillard said the results reflect collaborative efforts across local organizations.

“Well, it makes me feel very good. Our city-county organizations have done well. Our school system, our hospitals. I think we’re really seeing the fruits of our new hybrid Downtown Development Authority and Economic Development Authority. Oh, it’s very rewarding. It really is,” Dillard said.

Dillard attributed the growth to multiple new investments in the city, including the EnergyTek corporation; major retailers like Hobby Lobby and Marshalls; and new vendors moving into downtown.

Dillard said Moultrie has reached its highest popularity level in nearly two decades.

“A lot of new people came in and have done an outstanding job of reviving downtown Moultrie. I remember twenty years ago, you could ride through town on Saturday, and it was empty. It was like a ghost town. Today, you can barely find a parking place,” Dillard said.

Marvin King, owner of King’s Jewelry, has witnessed the transformation since opening his shop in 1982.

“It’s amazing because I see other towns that’s not thriving like downtown Moultrie is. And we have really grown. Almost every shop is [growing]. There’s no vacancy. We have them all full, and it’s just amazing that new businesses are coming into downtown, and they stay. Like, I’ve been here since 1982,” King said.

Dillard said 2026 looks to bring additional growth and development, with plans for two new hotels already approved for the area.

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