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Story perspectives

Construction Sector Adds Jobs Despite Tariff Challenges

4/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The construction sector gained 13,000 jobs in March, totaling 8,313,000 employed.
New tariffs may impede job growth and raise construction costs.
Average hourly earnings for construction workers increased by 4.1% to $36.79, outpacing private sector wage growth.
Residential construction lost 9,800 jobs, while nonresidential firms added 22,300 positions.
The unemployment rate in construction held steady at 5.4%.

History

Historical Context

The recent job growth in the construction sector echoes the post-World War II economic boom, where infrastructure projects surged due to government spending. However, current tariffs threaten to replicate past challenges, reminiscent of the 1980s trade wars that stifled growth and increased costs, impacting employment stability.

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Story summary

The construction sector gained 13,000 jobs in March, totaling 8,313,000 employed.
New tariffs may impede job growth and raise construction costs.
Average hourly earnings for construction workers increased by 4.1% to $36.79, outpacing private sector wage growth.
Residential construction lost 9,800 jobs, while nonresidential firms added 22,300 positions.
The unemployment rate in construction held steady at 5.4%.

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