US Job Growth Expected to Pick Up in July, Labor Market Remains Stable

NewsData.io · United States · Aug 7, 2026

Economists surveyed by Reuters forecast nonfarm payrolls rose by 80,000 in July, up from 57,000 in June, pointing to a resilient but not robust labor market. The unemployment rate is expected to hold at 4.2%, with healthcare, leisure, and hospitality sectors likely leading gains. Employers remain reluctant to significantly expand hiring but have avoided widespread layoffs, while a shrinking labor force—partly tied to tighter immigration policies—has reduced the jobs threshold needed for employment stability. The report will also be watched for revisions to prior months and signals on Federal Reserve rate policy.