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ALBANY, Ga. (ALB) - Albany’s economy is expected to grow more slowly in 2026 than in recent years, but economists say job growth will not come to a stop.

Several private-sector development projects announced over the past few years are still coming online, bringing new manufacturing and industrial jobs to the region. Those projects, combined with Albany’s reliance on healthcare, education, government, and agriculture, help reduce the risk of sharp downturns.

Healthcare remains one of Albany’s strongest sectors, while agriculture and food processing are expected to benefit from global demand. Retail jobs, however, are expected to decline due to automation and online competition.

Housing prices are expected to remain stable, helping support consumer spending without fueling rapid growth.

Despite population decline and out-migration challenges, economists say Albany’s economic structure puts it in a stronger position than many communities during a period of slower growth.

WALB’s Ashanti Drake will have more about Albany’s economy in our later newscasts.

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