The ASA Staffing Index rose +0.3% WoW and +3.0% YoY in mid-February 2026, indicating continued gradual staffing growth.

• The index increased to 85 in the week of Feb 9–15, with weather cited as limiting stronger gains.

• Staffing employment growth accelerated to +3.0% YoY (prior week: +2.3%), showing improving annual momentum.

• New assignments rose +14.4% WoW, suggesting stronger short-term hiring activity.

• 41% of firms reported WoW increases in new starts, matching last year’s participation rate.

• The four-week moving average held at 84, indicating a stable near-term trend.

• Temporary and contract staffing employment over four weeks was +2.2% YoY, confirming ongoing improvement versus 2025.

• Employers appear to favor temporary workers over permanent hires, consistent with steady but cautious hiring behavior.