U.S. job growth remained surprisingly strong in May, adding 139,000 nonfarm payrolls despite economic headwinds. This exceeded expectations, although April's numbers were revised downward. The unemployment rate stayed at 4.2%, while average hourly earnings rose 0.4%. Health care led job gains, while government job losses reflected ongoing reduction efforts. Despite positive employment figures, some inconsistencies exist between establishment and household surveys.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.