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Construction Sector Adds 19,000 Jobs Amid Industry Challenges

3/8/2025

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Summary

Construction Sector Growth

In February, the U.S. construction sector added 19,000 jobs, with residential construction contributing 12,700 and non-residential 6,200.
The unemployment rate for construction workers increased to 7.2%.
Year-over-year, construction employment rose by 174,000 jobs, indicating industry optimism.
Future job growth faces challenges from federal spending cuts and economic uncertainty.

Summary

Chemical Industry Expansion

In February, the U.S. chemical industry saw growth in new orders and production, despite declines in employment and exports.
January construction spending decreased by 0.2%, with private residential projects down 0.4%.
The ISM Manufacturing PMI® reported slight manufacturing expansion, alongside growth in the services sector.
Brent crude oil prices fell to a three-year low due to trade tariffs and OPEC+ output strategies.

History

Historical Context

The construction sector's recent job growth echoes the post-2008 recovery, where stimulus measures aimed to boost employment. Similar to then, current federal spending cuts and economic uncertainty threaten future growth, highlighting the cyclical nature of construction employment and its sensitivity to policy shifts.

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Construction Sector Growth

In February, the U.S. construction sector added 19,000 jobs, with residential construction contributing 12,700 and non-residential 6,200.
The unemployment rate for construction workers increased to 7.2%.
Year-over-year, construction employment rose by 174,000 jobs, indicating industry optimism.
Future job growth faces challenges from federal spending cuts and economic uncertainty.

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