The Paychex Small Business Jobs Index fell -0.31 pts to 99.52 in September 2025, the lowest level since March 2021, and was down -0.32 pts YoY, reflecting slower but steady small business job growth.

• Midwest (100.02) remained the top-performing region for the 16th straight month, while the West (98.82) stayed below 100 for an 18th month, though losses have moderated.

• The South (99.61) recorded the weakest 1-, 3-, and 12-month change rates among regions, indicating broad softness.

• Ohio (100.87) led all states in September and, alongside Indiana (100.64), was the only Midwest state with YoY job gains.

• Washington (98.34) rebounded +0.60 pts but remained the weakest state, followed by Maryland (98.52) and California (98.75), which has stayed out of the top half since March 2022.

• Education & Health Services (101.06) led sectors for the 16th consecutive month, followed by Financial Activities (100.10) as the only other sector with YoY job gains.

• Leisure & Hospitality (98.70) has remained below 99 since June 2024, while Construction (98.88) fell under 99 for the first time since March 2021.

• Manufacturing (98.18) ranked last among sectors, though its 2025 YTD average still outpaces 2024 levels.