U.S. private payroll growth cooled at the start of 2026, rising at a slower‑than‑expected pace, according to ADP data released on Feb. 4.
The private sector added 22,000 jobs in January, down from a downwardly revised 37,000 in December, the payroll processor said in its National Employment Report.
This came in well below the consensus estimate of 48,000.
Education and health care services accounted for much of the employment gains, with 74,000 new positions. Financial activities and construction also added 14,000 and 9,000, respectively, last month.
Conversely, professional and business services shed 57,000 jobs, and manufacturing eliminated 8,000.
Payroll growth among small businesses—one to 49 employees—was flat. Mid-sized companies—50 to 499 employees—expanded staff by 41,000. Large companies with 500 or more workers posted an 18,000-job drop….
US Private Payrolls Growth Slows to Start 2026: ADP
