US Economy Adds 227,000 Jobs in November, Unemployment at 4.2%

In November, nonfarm payrolls increased by 227,000, surpassing expectations, as the impact of previous labor strikes and storms diminished. The unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.2%, with a broader measure including discouraged workers reaching 7.8%. Job growth was notable in health care, leisure and hospitality, and government sectors, while retail trade saw a decline. Average hourly earnings increased by 0.4% month-over-month and 4% year-over-year, both slightly above forecasts.