Stable Employment Levels Continue for U.S. Small Businesses in August

Rochester, N.Y. (September 1, 2026) – The pace of job growth (99.13) among small businesses in the U.S. remained consistent in August, according to the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch, which reports on employers with fewer than 50 employees. Weekly hours worked growth (0.07%) for small business personnel was positive for the sixth consecutive month in August – a stretch not seen since October 2020 – as employers continue to rely on their existing workforces to meet demand. Hourly earnings growth for employees remained below three percent (2.89%) for the 24th consecutive month, while weekly earnings growth reached 3.00% in August.

Read the full news release on the Small Business Employment Watch site.