Georgia Ports Support More Than 650,000 Jobs, UGA Study Finds; Economic Impact Jumps 7%
SAVANNAH, Ga. — Port activity in Georgia now supports 650,965 full- and part-time jobs across the state, according to a new economic impact study by the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. That figure marks an increase of 41,770 jobs, or 7 percent, compared to fiscal year 2023. In total, Georgia’s ports now sustain 12 percent of statewide employment.
“Georgia has been recognized as the No. 1 state for business for over a decade in part because we’re also the best state for reliable infrastructure,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As powerful economic drivers, the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick are a key part of the pro-job creator environment we’ve fostered.”
The study reported that in fiscal year 2024, Georgia’s deepwater ports generated:
- $174 billion in sales, accounting for 11 percent of the state’s total sales.
- $77 billion in GDP, equal to 9 percent of Georgia’s economy.
- $43 billion in income, representing 7 percent of total personal income.
Top exports included forest products, food, and automobiles, while imports were led by machinery, retail goods, and furniture.
“Georgia’s ports are one of its strongest economic engines, fostering the development of virtually every industry,” said Jeff Humphreys, director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth, which conducted the study.
Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) President and CEO Griff Lynch credited statewide collaboration for the growth. “From the leadership of Gov. Kemp and our legislature to the work of the Georgia Department of Economic Development and our logistics community, a customer-centered focus is driving job growth across the state,” Lynch said.
Trade through the ports also contributes to government revenue, producing $10 billion in federal taxes, $3 billion in state taxes, and $3 billion in local taxes each year.
The Port of Savannah continues to handle high volumes, with 35 weekly vessel services, up to 16,000 truck moves per day, and 42 double-stack trains each week. Meanwhile, the Port of Brunswick became the nation’s busiest gateway for autos and heavy machinery in 2024, moving more than 900,000 units of Roll-on/Roll-off cargo.
“This latest report highlights the essential role our employees, terminal operators, and industry partners play in Georgia’s success,” said GPA Board Chairman Alec Poitevint, noting that port improvements are financed through port proceeds rather than taxpayer dollars.
The full study, The Economic Impact of Georgia’s Deepwater Ports on Georgia’s Economy in FY 2024, is the most recent in a series by UGA’s Selig Center.
