Monthly, Not Seasonally Adjusted

SMU10000005552220001 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

17.40

Year-over-Year Change

2.96%

Date Range

1/1/1990 - 12/1/2017

Summary

This economic series tracks the monthly, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the U.S. It is a key indicator of labor market conditions and overall economic health.

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 monthly, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate represents the share of the total civilian labor force that is jobless. It is an important statistic used by economists, policymakers, and analysts to assess the strength of the U.S. job market and broader economic trends.

Methodology

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics collects this data through the monthly Current Population Survey.

Historical Context

Policymakers and market participants closely monitor the unemployment rate to inform economic and monetary policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. unemployment rate averaged 3.6% in 2019 before spiking to 14.7% in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The unemployment rate has gradually declined since the pandemic peak but remains elevated compared to pre-crisis levels.
  • High unemployment can indicate economic weakness and may prompt policy responses from the Federal Reserve or Congress.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This series tracks the monthly, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the United States, which represents the share of the total civilian labor force that is jobless.

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

A: The unemployment rate is a key indicator of labor market conditions and overall economic health, making it highly relevant for economists, policymakers, and market participants.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics collects this data through the monthly Current Population Survey.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and market participants closely monitor the unemployment rate to inform economic and monetary policy decisions, such as interest rate adjustments by the Federal Reserve.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The unemployment rate data is released monthly, with a short lag, and is subject to revision as more complete information becomes available.

Similar SMU Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly, Not Seasonally Adjusted (SMU10000005552220001), retrieved from FRED.