Long-term unemployment reaches highest level in a decade
Longer jobless spells mask a concerning shift in the labor market, even as job growth remains robust.
(Photo via CNBC)
The average duration of unemployment for jobless workers in the United States surpassed 27 weeks in October, according to data reported on Nov. 6, 2026.
This figure marks the highest average length of time spent out of work in ten years, excluding the period impacted by the pandemic. The trend highlights a shift in labor market dynamics, suggesting that while job numbers remain strong, individuals who lose their employment are facing greater difficulty in securing new positions.
The data indicates that the transition period for those seeking new roles has lengthened significantly. This development stands out as a notable challenge within the broader context of recent employment reports.