The labor force participation rate among women ages 25 to 54, their prime working years, dipped to 78.1% September, from 78.4% in August. But that number is still hovering at record levels, and it’s been climbing steadily to new heights through 2024.

September's jobs picture is expected to look a lot like August's — a gradual slowdown in hiring and a modest increase in wages. Markets will be watching the report closely for indications as to whether the Fed will be able to loosen policy and lower interest rates in a gradual manner.

Wall Street is watching the labor market for signs of slower hiring, which could influence the Federal Reserve's next rate decision.

The U.S. economy created a robust 254,000 new jobs in September, indicating the labor market is still in pretty good shape and likely supporting a gradualist strategy by the Federal Reserve in cutting interest rates.

Continuing job claims may not be a good indicator for the unemployment rate. Read what one unnoticed factor could push the unemployment rate higher.

The September jobs report will be pivotal for markets because it holds implications for future Fed interest rate policies.

The U.S. added 254,000 jobs in September, far exceeding expectations, while the unemployment rate fell from 4.2% in August to 4.1%.

Many have doubted it. Even the optimists have worried about it. But despite the hand-wringing, the American economy appears to be in remarkably good shape. Businesses added 254,000 jobs in September,

The latest figures suggest that many companies are still confident enough to fill jobs despite the continued pressure of high-interest rates.