ECONOMY

U.S. adds 115,000 jobs in April; unemployment steady

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Washington — The U.S. Labor Department reported on Friday that employers added 115,000 nonfarm payroll jobs in April, with the unemployment rate holding at 4.3%. Hiring gains were concentrated in healthcare (37,000) and transportation and warehousing (30,000), while manufacturing lost 2,000 jobs and prior months’ figures were revised. Economists this week noted average hourly earnings rose 0.2% month-over-month and 3.6% year-over-year, and flagged that higher gasoline prices driven by the Iran conflict have so far not materially reduced hiring. Market analysts said the data reinforce expectations the Federal Reserve is likely to keep interest rates unchanged into 2027.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Early February: BLS initial report showed significant job cuts later revised.
March: Payrolls reported strong gains and later revised up to 185,000 jobs.
8th May: Labor Department reported April added 115,000 jobs; unemployment 4.3%.
Early May: Average hourly earnings reported +0.2% month-over-month and +3.6% year-over-year.
This week: Economists and markets interpret data as supporting stable Fed rates into 2027.

Why This Matters to You

The job market's health affects us all. More jobs can mean more opportunities for you or your loved ones. Plus, steady unemployment and wage growth could signal a stable economy. Keep an eye on sectors like healthcare and transportation - they're hiring.

The Bottom Line

Despite global tensions and fluctuating gas prices, our economy's still adding jobs. Economists think this could keep interest rates steady for a while. Worth forwarding if you know someone considering a career move.