The US labor market weakened in September, with employers adding just 29,000 jobs while unemployment rose to 4.2%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Economists had expected 84,000 jobs and a 4.1% unemployment rate. August payroll growth was revised down to 133,000, while July was revised to a 10,000-job decline. Combined revisions erased 60,000 reported jobs.
Despite weak payroll growth, the household survey showed employment rising by 406,000. Labor-force participation increased to 61.8%.
Wage growth cooled, with hourly earnings rising 0.1% in September and 3% over the year. Healthcare, construction and manufacturing added workers, while government, temporary services and information jobs declined.
The figures reinforce concerns about a low-hiring labor market, even as economic growth remains resilient.
Related Tweet:
U.S. nonfarm payrolls increase by 29,000 in September, less than expected; unemployment rises to 4.2% https://t.co/engsDgbHhl
— CNBC (@CNBC) October 2, 2026
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TIPP Staff
