US Job Market Shows Stark Divide: Private Sector Struggles While Public Sector Expands

Interactive Graphic of Recent California Employment Trends US Job Market Shows Stark Divide: Private Sector Struggles While Public Sector Expands The US job market, particularly in California, is showing pronounced contrasts between private and public sector employment as we move through 2025, with significant policy changes at both federal and state levels affecting hiring trends. Recent Employment Data Reveals Concerning Trends Total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 151,000 in February 2025, similar to the average monthly gain of 168,000 over the prior 12 months, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report . The national unemployment rate remained relatively steady at 4.1 percent. Health care, financial activities, transportation and warehousing, and social assistance showed job growth, while federal government employment declined. California's economic struggles appear to be intensifying, with the state's unemployment rate rising to 5.4% in February 2025,...