May Brings Mixed Jobs Data
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May’s report shows steady headline payrolls growth at 139,000 jobs added and the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.2%. Still, household data are highlighting growing challenges for job seekers.

May Brings Mixed Jobs Data

June 06, 2025

May’s report shows steady headline payrolls growth at 139,000 jobs added and the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.2%. Still, household data are highlighting growing challenges for job seekers.

Trusted Insights for What’s Ahead®

  • The labor market remains on solid footing despite the impacts of tariffs on economic growth. Nonetheless, headwinds remain.
  • Payrolls rose by 139,000 in May, while the unemployment rate held at 4.2%, signaling continued resilience in labor demand.
  • Firms were largely reluctant to downsize headcount through May. It is likely that some employers have temporarily slowed expansion plans and hiring amid uncertainty around tariff impacts.
  • Payroll growth slowed slightly in May across some trade-exposed sectors—including manufacturing, warehousing, wholesale, and retail—possibly early signs of pressure.
  • Household data showed a reduction in employment in May, but the rise in unemployment was negated by workers exiting the labor force.
  • Jobless claims rose through the end of May, but the pace indicates gradual cooling and difficulty for job seeke
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Author

Mitchell Barnes

Mitchell Barnes

Economist

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