U.S. Adds 128,000 Jobs in October, Jobless Rate Edges Up to 3.6%

In October, the unemployment rate remained steady at 3.6% despite challenges like the GM strike and the completion of census work. Job growth was notable in food services, social assistance, and financial activities, while manufacturing saw a decline due to the GM strike. Federal employment also decreased as census work concluded. Average hourly earnings increased slightly, and the labor participation rate remained stable. Revisions for August and September added 95,000 previously unreported jobs, culminating in a total of 128,000 jobs added in October, surpassing expectations.

What was the unemployment rate in October, and which sectors contributed to job growth?

• 3.6%; food services, social assistance, financial activities

• 4.0%; manufacturing, construction, retail

• 3.5%; agriculture, mining, utilities

• 3.8%; healthcare, education, technology

What was the primary reason for the decline in manufacturing jobs in October?

• A rise in import tariffs

• A decrease in consumer demand

• New environmental regulations

• The GM strike

How much did average hourly earnings increase in October?

• Eight cents

• Six cents

• Four cents

• Ten cents

By how many jobs was August's employment figure revised upward?

• 44,000 jobs

• 51,000 jobs

• 36,000 jobs

• 28,000 jobs

What was the total number of jobs added to the US economy in October?

• 110,000 jobs

• 128,000 jobs

• 95,000 jobs

• 150,000 jobs