United States Labor Force Participation Rate
61.6%▲ +0.2 pt
Aug 2026 · Monthly
The US labor force participation rate rose to 61.6% in August 2026 from 61.4% in July, ending a streak of four consecutive monthly declines. The rate remains well below its all-time high of 67.3% in April 2000 and above the series low of 58.1% in December 1954. The unemployment rate stood at 4.1% in August, while non-farm payrolls increased by 159,075, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
source: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Labor Force Participation Rate in United States rose to 61.6% in Aug 2026 from 61.4% in Jul 2026.
| Actual | Previous | Highest | Lowest | Dates | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 61.6% | 61.4% | 67.3%Apr 2000 | 58.1%Dec 1954 | 1948 – 2026 | Monthly |
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About this series
Labor Force Participation Rate in United States averaged 64.8% from 1948 until 2026, reaching an all-time high of 67.3% in Apr 2000 and a record low of 58.1% in Dec 1954. The series is reported monthly with history from 1948.
Source & methodology
We use primary economic sources for every country. See our methodology page for how we source and verify this data.
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