US Labor Market Loses Momentum as Nonfarm Payroll Employment Declines

The US labor market lost momentum in July, with nonfarm payroll employment declining by 23,000 jobs nationally. This follows an increase of 20,000 jobs in June.

While overall employment fell, construction employment remained relatively resilient, adding 22,000 jobs during the month. Twenty-eight states added construction jobs compared to June, while 18 states and D.C. lost jobs; four states reported no change.

Illinois recorded the largest monthly gain in construction employment (+3,200), while Texas recorded the largest loss (-3,400). In percentage terms, Mississippi recorded the strongest monthly increase (+1.9%), while West Virginia experienced the steepest decline (-2.8%).