U.S. employers added 165,000 jobs in October, exceeding forecasts, while unemployment fell to 4.1%. The Labor Department’s Friday report showed broad gains led by professional and business services and health care, and average hourly earnings advanced. The increase was described as a sign the job market is picking up speed; it was the first major economic data release since the midterms.
WHO:
U.S. employers
WHAT:
U.S. employers added 165,000 jobs in October. The Labor Department’s report showed broad job gains led by professional and business services and health care, and average hourly earnings advanced. The unemployment rate dipped to 4.1%, below the expected 4.2%.
WHEN:
Reported Nov 6, 2026 at 9:52 AM ET
WHERE:
USA
WHY:
No reason for the hiring increase was given. The increase was described as a sign that the job market is picking up speed. The relatively stable labor market has allowed the Federal Reserve to prioritize fighting stubbornly high prices while pursuing its dual mandate of 2% inflation and maximum employment.
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