Recent Job Growth and Wage Trends

In November, the U.S. economy added 227,000 jobs, reflecting a mixed landscape in terms of employment and wages. While unemployment slightly increased to 4.2%, average hourly earnings rose by 4% year-over-year, reaching just over $35 an hour. However, this overall progress highlights disparities, especially among men, with significant variations in wage growth depending on education levels. For instance, men with a four-year degree have seen a 38% increase in wages since 1979, while those with a high school diploma have experienced a decrease of 6%.