Hiring accelerated last month to the best pace since August, signaling a stronger rebound is under way that could deliver jobs to the industries, regions and workers hardest hit during the coronavirus pandemic.
U.S. employers added a seasonally adjusted 916,000 jobs in March, the Labor Department said Friday. The gain affirms an accelerating employment trend after a winter stall and could be the start of a prolonged stretch of strong job creation.
Meanwhile, the unemployment rate, determined by a separate survey, fell to 6.0%. Last month more job seekers entered the labor market, which could provide a critical source of labor for employers ramping up hiring in the coming months.
The jobs rebound is gaining renewed momentum as more people are vaccinated against Covid-19, states lift restrictions on business activity, and consumers grow more comfortable dining, shopping and traveling outside their homes.
Hiring rose in most industries, led by a gain of 280,000 in the category that includes restaurants and hotels. Employment also rose sharply in construction, manufacturing and the government. Temporary help and auto manufacturing were weak spots.
