Business

US employers add 130K jobs in January in strong start to 2026

February 11, 2026

Hiring in January blew past expectations, signaling that the labor market could be picking up — and likely dashing hopes for an interest rate cut at the Federal Reserve’s meeting next month.

US employers added 130,000 jobs in January – a rapid pickup in pace from December and far exceeding expectations of 55,000 jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said Wednesday.

The unemployment rate ticked down slightly to 4.3%, from 4.4% the previous month.

Hiring in January ramped up far above expectations. Bloomberg via Getty Images

The report – which was delayed from Friday due to a partial government shutdown – is the first hint into this year’s labor market, after 2025 marked the slowest year for job growth since 2009 not counting 2020 during the pandemic.

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Wesley Scott

Wesley Scott is a seasoned business journalist with a knack for breaking down complex financial matters and corporate trends. With a background that includes seven years working on Wall Street, Wesley brings insider knowledge to his reporting, offering readers both depth and clarity. His articles cover a wide range of topics, from market trends and corporate leadership changes to business ethics and the impact of global events on industries. Known for his ability to identify emerging patterns in the business world, Wesley’s writing serves as a reliable resource for professionals and curious readers alike. Whether covering shifts in consumer behavior or unraveling the dynamics of corporate mergers, Wesley's work ensures his audience stays ahead of the curve.