The jobs picture still looks muddy, even with surprisingly strong January growth

The U.S. saw the strongest monthly gain since 2025, adding 130,000 jobs in January. The unemployment rate decreased to 4.3%, the lowest level it's been in several months. This is a positive step forward but the job market overall is still weak. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most of Januarys new jobs were in the healthcare field. This raises concerns because job growth is not spread throughout industries. Additionally,  last year's hiring was slower than first reported. Wage growth is also slowing, which could impact consumer spending because families rely on income to keep up with rising costs.

Although the economy is growing, the job market is not matching that pace. Economic growth usually comes with consistent job creation, which has not been the case. This puts the Federal Reserve in a tough spot as it decides whether to cut interest rates to support the market or keep the rates to control inflation.

Overall, January's numbers are looking promising, but it's too early to say the job market is truly stable and strong again.

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/11/the-jobs-picture-still-looks-muddy-even-with-surprisingly-strong-january-growth.html