U.S. Adds 263,000 Jobs in April, Jobless Rate Falls to 3.6%

In April, the economy exceeded expectations with a 3.6% unemployment rate, the lowest since 1969. Average hourly earnings increased by $0.06 to $27.77, marking a 3.2% year-over-year rise. The labor participation rate fell to 62.8%. Significant job gains were seen in professional services, construction, and healthcare. February's job gains were revised up, while March's were revised down. Census hiring did not affect April's numbers but is expected to increase later. The unemployment rate for adult women hit a record low of 3.1%, the lowest since 1953, with a total of 263,000 jobs added in April.

What was the unemployment rate in April, and how does it compare historically?

• 3.6%, the lowest since December 1969

• 4.0%, the lowest since 1980

• 3.8%, the lowest since 2000

• 3.5%, the lowest since 1975

How much did average hourly earnings increase in April?

• $0.06 to $27.77

• $0.08 to $28.10

• $0.10 to $28.00

• $0.05 to $27.50

Which sector added the most jobs in April?

• Construction

• Healthcare

• Professional and business services

• Retail

What was the labor participation rate in April?

• 63.0%

• 62.5%

• 63.2%

• 62.8%

What was the unemployment rate for adult women, and how does it compare historically?

• 3.0%, the lowest since 1980

• 3.2%, the lowest since 1970

• 3.5%, the lowest since 1960

• 3.1%, the lowest since 1953