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The American employment landscape is constantly changing. Keep up-to-date with the most recent trends with our monthly Employment Update. All figures are provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the America Staffing Association.
The unemployment rate changed little at 4.1 percent, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Employment continued to trend up in food services and drinking places, health care, government, social assistance, and construction.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) was little changed over the month at 1.6 million. This measure is up from 1.3 million a year earlier. In September, the long-term unemployed accounted for 23.7 percent of all unemployed people.
In September, the labor force participation rate was 62.7 percent for the third consecutive month, and the employment-population ratio was little changed at 60.2 percent. Both measures changed little over the year.
In September, average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls increased by 13 cents, or 0.4 percent, to $35.36. Over the past 12 months, average hourly earnings have increased by 4.0 percent.
The number of people employed part time for economic reasons changed little at 4.6 million in September. This measure is up from 4.1 million a year earlier. These individuals would have preferred full-time employment but were working part time because their hours had been reduced or they were unable to find full-time jobs.
The number of people not in the labor force who currently want a job, at 5.7 million, changed little in September. These individuals were not counted as unemployed because they were not actively looking for work during the 4 weeks preceding the survey or were unavailable to take a job.
Temporary help employment was 1.68% of total nonfarm employment in September. This is down from 1.70 in August.
Temporary help jobs in September remained the same at 5.2%.
Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 254,000 in September.
Notable job gains occurred in:
Health care (+45K)
Government (+31K)
Construction (+25k)
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Acara summarizes the latest industry trends each month to keep you informed as you make decisions about the future of your business.
Supporting employee mental health is essential for business success. APA’s 2024 survey shows younger workers feel stressed, lonely, and undervalued.
While investing in mental health resources requires effort, the cost of neglecting it is far higher. High stress leads to absenteeism, low engagement, and reduced productivity. A 2017 study estimated job stress costs the U.S. up to $187 billion annually, a figure worsened by the pandemic.
The gig economy is growing quickly, fueled by digital platforms and rising demand for flexible work. In 2018, it generated $204 billion in the U.S. alone. Surveys indicate that one-quarter to one-third of the U.S. workforce is involved in gig or independent work arrangements, reflecting a major shift in how people earn and businesses operate.
The rise of the gig and freelance economy has transformed traditional work structures. More individuals are choosing flexible, project-based work instead of full-time employment, driven by technological advancements and shifting job market demands. This shift allows for greater autonomy and work-life balance for freelancers, while businesses benefit from tapping into a global talent pool without long-term commitments. However, it also raises concerns about job security, benefits, and regulatory protections for gig workers.
Flexibility: Workers in the gig economy have the flexibility to set their own hours. While tasks typically come with deadlines, when and how they work is entirely up to the individual, allowing for greater control over their schedules.
Cost Effectiveness: By hiring off-site independent contractors, businesses can avoid the overhead costs associated with maintaining large offices and physical workspaces. Additionally, there are savings from not needing to provide employee benefits such as health packages, retirement plans, and paid sick leave.
Independence: Independent contractors in the gig economy have the flexibility to work outside of traditional office settings, operating from various locations.