The Unemployment Rate represents the percentage of the total labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment during the previous month. It is one of the most closely watched economic indicators as it reflects the health of the labor market and overall economic vitality. A declining rate suggests economic expansion and potential upward pressure on wages.
The rate is derived from the Household Survey (Current Population Survey) conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, covering approximately 60,000 households.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 15, 2026 | — | 5.10 | — |
| Oct 15, 2026 | 5.00 | 5.20 | -0.20 |
| Sep 15, 2026 | 5.00 | 5.20 | -0.20 |
| Aug 17, 2026 | 5.10 | 5.40 | -0.30 |
| Jul 15, 2026 | 5.50 | 5.40 | +0.10 |
| Jun 15, 2026 | 5.50 | 5.30 | +0.20 |
| May 15, 2026 | 5.20 | — | — |
| Apr 15, 2026 | 5.10 | 5.10 | 0.00 |
| Mar 16, 2026 | 4.90 | 5.10 | -0.20 |
| Feb 16, 2026 | 5.00 | 4.80 | +0.20 |
| Jan 15, 2026 | 4.80 | 4.80 | 0.00 |
| Dec 15, 2025 | 4.70 | 5.20 | -0.50 |
| Nov 17, 2025 | 5.20 | 5.30 | -0.10 |
| Oct 15, 2025 | 5.20 | 5.20 | 0.00 |
| Sep 15, 2025 | 5.10 | 5.30 | -0.20 |
| Aug 18, 2025 | 5.20 | 5.50 | -0.30 |
The latest reading is within its usual range, less than one standard deviation from the mean.
