Long‑term unemployment rises to 1.9M as hiring slows
U.S. long‑term unemployment climbed to about 1.9 million in August 2025 as hiring cooled, with the long‑term share of unemployed workers rising to 26% and the official unemployment rate at 4.3%. Private payrolls fell by 32,000 in September per ADP, job openings have declined, and analysts warn the combination could push discouraged workers out of the labor force and strain household finances. The September government jobs report release is delayed because of the federal shutdown, complicating the near‑term economic data picture.
Economy
Labor
🔍 Key Facts
- 1.9 million Americans were long‑term unemployed (27+ weeks) in August 2025 — highest since 2021.
- Long‑term unemployed comprised 26% of all unemployed people; overall unemployment was 4.3%.
- ADP reported private employers cut 32,000 jobs in September 2025.
- Official September jobs report timing delayed due to the federal government shutdown.