economy

U.S. payrolls rose by 178,000 in March, more than expected; unemployment at 4.3%

Nonfarm payrolls were expected to increase by 59,000 in March, with the unemployment rate holding at 4.4%.

U.S. payrolls rose by 178,000 in March, more than expected; unemployment at 4.3%

TL;DR

  • Nonfarm payrolls increased by 178,000 in March, exceeding estimates.
  • The unemployment rate decreased to 4.3%, influenced by a decline in the labor force.
  • Health care sector led job growth with 76,000 new positions.
  • Federal government and financial activities sectors experienced job losses.
  • Wage growth was modest, with average hourly earnings up 0.2% for the month.
  • The share of working-age Americans in the labor force fell to its lowest point since November 2021.
  • Market expectations indicate the Federal Reserve will likely maintain current interest rates.