The U.S. economy added 115,000 jobs in April, beating expectations and showing continued strength in the labor market.
The unemployment rate held steady at 4.3%, according to the Labor Department. Economists had expected a smaller gain of about 55,000 to 65,000 jobs.
The April report followed a stronger March reading. Payrolls for March were revised up to 185,000 jobs. February was revised lower, showing a loss of 156,000 jobs.
Private-sector hiring drove the April gain. Health care added 37,000 jobs, while transportation and warehousing added 30,000. Retail trade added 22,000 jobs.
Federal government employment continued to decline, falling by 9,000 jobs in April. That drop offset some gains in other parts of the labor market.
Average hourly earnings rose 6 cents, or 0.2%, to $37.41. Over the past year, wages are up 3.6%.
The report suggests the labor market remains resilient despite higher gas prices and uncertainty tied to the conflict in the Middle East. One economist quoted by CBS News said the 115,000-job gain showed continued strength, though higher oil and commodity prices could still slow growth later.
The stronger-than-expected jobs report may also give the Federal Reserve another reason to hold off on cutting interest rates. Inflation remains elevated, and policymakers have been cautious about easing rates while energy costs are rising.
The April numbers show that hiring has improved from February’s sharp decline. But the broader labor market remains uneven, with some sectors adding workers while others continue to cut jobs.