U.S. Job Growth Slows Considerably in September, Unemployment Rate Ticks Up
In September, U.S. employers added a significantly lower-than-expected 29,000 jobs, and the unemployment rate rose to 4.2%. Wage growth also slowed, with annual gains at their lowest since May 2021. This economic data was released by the Labor Department.
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, October 2, 2026 — The United States saw a notable slowdown in job creation in September, with employers adding 29,000 positions, a figure significantly below expectations. Concurrently, the national unemployment rate increased to 4.2%, according to data released by the Labor Department.
The September jobs report indicates a deceleration in the labor market’s expansion. The addition of 29,000 jobs falls considerably short of what economists had anticipated for the month.
In addition to the weaker job gains, the report highlighted a rise in the unemployment rate. The figure climbed to 4.2%, signaling a shift in the labor market’s condition.
Wage growth also experienced a slowdown. The annual gains in wages reached their lowest point since May 2021. This cooling trend in wage increases further characterizes the evolving economic landscape.
The Labor Department’s findings provide key insights into the current state of the U.S. economy, reflecting trends in employment, unemployment, and compensation.
Story summarized from the original created by By PAUL WISEMAN, Associated Press on www.local10.com, see more information here.
