Paychex Jobs Index Hits 99.83; West and Leisure & Hospitality Lead Gains
PAYX•Paychex’s Small Business Jobs Index rose for a fourth straight month in June to 99.83, its highest level since August 2025, driven by a 1.22-point gain in the West and a 1.68-point jump in Leisure & Hospitality. Weekly hours climbed 0.14% while hourly earnings remained at 2.80%.
1. Index Performance and Trends
In June, the Paychex Small Business Jobs Index climbed to 99.83, marking its fourth consecutive monthly increase and matching a peak last seen in August 2025. This sustained upward trend is the first four-month streak since November 2020, underlining steady momentum in small business hiring.
2. Regional and Sector Highlights
All U.S. regions posted quarterly gains, led by the West’s 1.95-point three-month increase and a 1.22-point one-month rise. Industry growth was led by Leisure & Hospitality with a 1.68-point surge, while Education and Health Services topped June’s sector rankings and Indiana led states at 101.46.
3. Wage Growth and Hours Worked
Hourly earnings growth held at 2.80%, remaining below three percent, as weekly hours worked rose 0.14% for the fourth straight month. These trends indicate moderate wage pressures alongside rising labor utilization among small businesses.
