The United States economy lost more than 92,000 jobs in February. The unexpected decline pushed the national unemployment rate up to 4.4%.

The data surprised many economists who had expected the labor market to add new jobs during the month. Instead the report showed a clear drop in payroll numbers.

This marks another sign that the job market may be cooling after a long period of strong hiring.

US job losses reach 92,000 in February

The latest employment data showed that nonfarm payrolls fell by 92,000 during February. Analysts had predicted job growth instead of a decline.

The drop follows a mixed trend in recent months. Job growth has slowed compared with the strong hiring seen earlier in the economic recovery.

Several industries reported weaker hiring. Some businesses have also slowed expansion plans as borrowing costs remain relatively high.

Economists say monthly job numbers can fluctuate because of factors such as weather disruptions, strikes, or temporary business slowdowns.

Unemployment rate rises to 4.4% in latest labor market report

Alongside the job losses, the unemployment rate increased to 4.4%. This indicates that a slightly larger share of the workforce is currently without employment.

Even with the rise, the unemployment rate remains relatively low by historical standards.

Still, the change is being closely watched by policymakers and investors. Labor market conditions play an important role in decisions made by the Federal Reserve on interest rates.

A weaker job market could strengthen arguments for possible rate cuts later in the year. However officials often look at several months of data before making major policy decisions.