September 2025 Employment Data Digest

September 2025 Employment Data Digest

• The U.S. economy added 119,000 jobs in September, an increase from the 4,000 jobs lost in August.
• The overall unemployment rate was up slightly from 4.3 percent in August to 4.4 percent in September. The 55+ unemployment rate was up, from 2.9 percent to 3.3 percent. For men ages 55+, it increased from 3 percent to 3.4 percent. The unemployment rate for women ages 55+ also increased, from 2.9 percent to 3.1 percent.
• In September, 28.4 percent of jobseekers ages 55+ were long-term unemployed, compared to 23.9 percent of jobseekers ages 16 to 54. 
• The total labor force participation rate was up slightly, from 62.3 percent to 62.4 percent. For those ages 55+, it was unchanged at 38.1 percent. The (unadjusted) rate for those ages 65+ was up slightly, from 19.4 percent to 19.5 percent.

U.S. WORKFORCE:

• 119,000 jobs added in September ↑
• Unemployment rate: 4.4 percent ↑
• Number of unemployed persons: 7.6 million ↑
• Labor force participation rate: 62.4 percent ↑
• Long-term unemployed ages 16–54: 23.9 percent ↓

55 AND OLDER U.S. WORKFORCE:

• 38 million 55+ workers employed in September ↓
• 55+ unemployment rate: 3.3 percent ↑
• Number of 55+ unemployed persons: 1.3 million ↑
• 55+ labor force participation rate: 38.1 percent ↔
• 55+ long-term unemployed: 28.4 percent ↑

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Arrows denote a directional change from the prior month.

About the PPI Monthly Employment Data Digest

The AARP Public Policy Institute’s (PPI) latest monthly digest of employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) examines the findings from the Employment Situation Report. It takes a closer look at employment data for people ages 55 and over, including labor force participation, employment rates, and duration of unemployment. 

For more analysis from PPI expert Jennifer Schramm on employment trends and older workers, see our blog.