U.S. civilian compensation costs rose 0.8% in third quarter, BLS reports
The Employment Cost Index shows civilian employer compensation costs rose 0.8% over the quarter ending September and 3.4% over the year. These are labor-cost measures, not individual raises.
What the record says
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported October 30 that civilian compensation costs increased 0.8% in the three months ending September 2026, after seasonal adjustment. Wages and salaries rose 0.7%, while benefit costs rose 0.9%.
Over the 12 months ending September, civilian compensation costs increased 3.4% before seasonal adjustment. Wages and salaries were up 3.1%, and benefits increased 3.9%.
The index tracks changes in labor costs while limiting the influence of shifts among occupations and industries. The civilian category includes private industry and state and local government workers.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Use the official BLS release to distinguish quarterly from annual changes and wages from total compensation.
Limits and what is not established
These are aggregate employer labor-cost indexes. They do not show every worker’s pay change or establish a cause for inflation or an interest-rate decision.
Sources checked November 1, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: original information