Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted

LFUNTTMAO1Q647S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

19,782,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

-20.22%

Date Range

1/1/2005 - 4/1/2017

Summary

This series measures the quarterly, seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the United States. It is a key economic indicator used by policymakers to gauge the health of the labor market.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted unemployment rate tracks the percentage of the total labor force that is jobless and actively seeking employment on a quarterly basis. This metric is widely followed by economists, financial analysts, and government officials to assess current economic conditions and inform policy decisions.

Methodology

The data is collected through the Current Population Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau on behalf of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Historical Context

The unemployment rate is a critical input for the Federal Reserve's monetary policy deliberations and decisions.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. unemployment rate peaked at 14.7% in April 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The natural rate of unemployment is estimated to be around 4-5%.
  • Unemployment is a lagging economic indicator, typically rising after the onset of a recession.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This series measures the quarterly, seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the United States, which represents the percentage of the total labor force that is jobless and actively seeking employment.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: The unemployment rate is a key economic indicator used by policymakers, economists, and analysts to assess the health of the labor market and broader economic conditions. It is a critical input for monetary policy decisions and a barometer of economic performance.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through the Current Population Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau on behalf of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The unemployment rate is a crucial metric for the Federal Reserve in its monetary policy deliberations and decisions, as it reflects the overall state of the labor market and broader economic conditions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The unemployment rate data is released on a monthly basis, with a slight delay, by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There may be limitations in accurately capturing certain segments of the labor force, such as the self-employed or discouraged workers.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted (LFUNTTMAO1Q647S), retrieved from FRED.