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.

The September jobs report was stronger than expected and is likely to assuage recession fears, driving up hopes for soft landing or no landing economic scenarios.

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.