Nonfarm Payrolls
The total number of paid U.S. workers excluding farm employees, government, and nonprofit workers. The current value of 158,466K is near the high end of its 10-year range, based on available data over the past 10 years. (Source: FRED)
Current Value
158,466K
Change
↓ 0.06%
Previous
158,558K
Source: FRED (PAYEMS) | Frequency: monthly | Last updated: April 2, 2026
What This Means for You
The Nonfarm Payrolls is currently at 158,466K. Changes in this indicator can affect related areas of the economy including consumer spending, business investment, and policy decisions. (Source: FRED)
10-Year History
Historical Context
Over the past 10 years, the Nonfarm Payrolls has ranged from a low of 130,426K in April 2020 to a high of 158,558K in January 2026, with an average of approximately 150,746K. The current value of 158,466K is near the high end of its 10-year range. (Source: FRED via FRED)
Related Employment Indicators
The Nonfarm Payrolls is part of the employment category. Related indicators include: Initial Jobless Claims (currently 210,000K), Labor Force Participation Rate (currently 61.90%), U-6 Unemployment Rate (currently 8.00%), Unemployment Rate (currently 4.30%). The headline unemployment rate (U-3) captures people actively looking for work, while U-6 includes discouraged and underemployed workers, providing a broader picture. Nonfarm payrolls measure total job creation, and initial jobless claims provide a near-real-time pulse on layoffs. The labor force participation rate reveals how many working-age adults are engaged with the job market at all, a dimension the unemployment rate alone does not capture. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
What to Watch
Economists and analysts monitor the Nonfarm Payrolls for trend changes that may signal shifts in economic conditions. This data is released monthly and is subject to revision. Changes in this indicator can ripple through related areas of the economy. Historical patterns do not guarantee future outcomes. (Source: FRED)
Limitations of This Data
This data is released monthly and reflects conditions as of the most recent reporting period. Economic data is frequently revised as more complete information becomes available; initial releases may differ significantly from final figures. This indicator measures one dimension of the economy and should be considered alongside other data for a more complete picture. (Source: FRED)
Explore Further
Data Sources
EconGrader is not an investment advisor or financial advisor. This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Economic data reflects past and present conditions and does not predict future outcomes. All data is sourced from federal government agencies and updated automatically. This site does not provide investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice.