The unemployment rate in May 2025 was unchanged at 4.2%, as total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 139,000. Analysts’ median forecast for May was 4.2%, and unemployment was 4.2% in April. Health care, leisure and hospitality, and social assistance all saw increases in employment, whereas federal employment continued to see a decline.

The number of unemployed people was little changed at 7.2 million, and unemployment has stayed between 4% and 4.2% since May 2024.

Relevant Sources: bls.gov