An article summarized by the Associated Press:
U.S. job openings slipped slightly to 7.36 million in June, down from 7.54 million in May, but the labor market remained resilient despite economic uncertainty stemming from the conflict with Iran and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Job openings increased in transportation, warehousing, utilities, and the federal government, while declining in wholesale trade and nondurable manufacturing.
Hiring improved modestly to 5.3 million, layoffs remained steady at 1.8 million, and the number of workers voluntarily quitting their jobs edged higher, signaling continued confidence among employees. Although hiring remains below the post-pandemic boom, the labor market has strengthened compared to last year, with employers adding an average of 92,000 jobs per month so far in 2026.
Attention now turns to Friday's July jobs report, where economists expect payroll growth to rebound to around 100,000 new jobs while the unemployment rate holds at 4.2%. Analysts note that slower population growth, reduced immigration, and ongoing retirements mean the economy no longer needs to create as many jobs each month to maintain a healthy labor market.
