US Labor Market Shows Steady Hiring

(MENAFN) The United States economy generated 115,000 new positions in April, while the unemployment rate stayed stable at 4.3%, according to figures released Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Market analysts had projected that nonfarm payroll employment would increase by 65,000 during the month.

The total number of unemployed individuals remained nearly steady at 7.4 million. Meanwhile, the labor force participation rate was recorded at 61.8%, and the employment-population ratio came in at 59.1%.

Employment growth was primarily concentrated in the health care, transportation and warehousing, and retail trade sectors. At the same time, federal government staffing levels continued to contract, based on the latest data.

Health care payrolls expanded by 37,000 jobs in April, supported by hiring increases in nursing and residential care facilities as well as home health care services.

The transportation and warehousing sector posted an increase of 30,000 positions, fueled by a 38,000-job rise in couriers and messengers. Despite this monthly improvement, employment within the sector remained lower by 105,000 jobs compared to its February 2025 high point.

Retail trade employment climbed by 22,000, largely driven by gains at warehouse clubs, supercenters, general merchandise retailers, and building material and garden equipment stores.

Federal government employment declined by 9,000 jobs in April. Since reaching its peak in October 2024, federal government staffing has dropped by 348,000 positions, representing an 11.5% decrease.

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