By Jennifer Schramm, AARP Public Policy Institute. Published August 01, 2025.

* The U.S. economy added 73,000 jobs in July, up from 14,000 jobs added in June.

* The overall unemployment rate was up slightly from 4.1 percent in June to 4.2 percent in July. The 55+ unemployment rate was down slightly, from 3 percent to 2.9 percent. For men ages 55+, it decreased from 3.1 percent to 2.9 percent. The unemployment rate for women ages 55+ also declined, from 3 percent to 2.8 percent.

* In July, 26.5 percent of jobseekers ages 55+ were long-term unemployed, compared to 23.1 percent of jobseekers ages 16 to 54.

* The total labor force participation rate was down slightly, from 62.3 percent to 62.2 percent. For those ages 55+, it was up slightly, from 38 percent to 38.1 percent. The (unadjusted) rate for those ages 65+ was also up, from 18.8 percent to 19 percent.