U.S. job openings rise to 7.52 million in September
Job openings surged in September, signaling a robust labor market ahead of key employment data.
(Photo via CNBC)
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on Nov. 3 that job openings reached 7.52 million in September, an increase of 333,000 from the revised August figure of 7.19 million. The data surpassed the Dow Jones consensus forecast of 7.15 million.
Total hires for the month reached 5.4 million, reflecting a rise of 131,000 compared to August. Meanwhile, the number of workers who voluntarily left their positions climbed to between 3.36 million and 3.4 million, marking the highest level observed since March 2025.
Layoffs and discharges trended downward, falling to 1.64 million, which represents the lowest level recorded since March 2025. Current figures indicate a labor market ratio of approximately 1.05 job openings for every unemployed worker.
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics noted in its technical release that the number of job openings was little changed at 7.5 million, analysts have pointed to the data as a sign of labor market resilience. Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union, stated that the existence of more job openings than unemployed people represents a significant shift from the previous year.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is scheduled to release the nonfarm payrolls report for October on Nov. 6. The next JOLTS report, covering October data, is set for publication on Dec. 1.