Unemployment holds steady for much of 2016 but edges down in the fourth quarter

Household survey data beginning in January 2016 reflect updated population estimates, also referred to as population controls. Population estimates for the household survey are developed by the U.S. Census Bureau. Each year, the Census Bureau updates the estimates to reflect new information and assumptions about the growth of the population since the previous decennial census and reviews the estimation methodology. The population adjustments incorporated with household survey data for January 2016 result from updated birth and death statistics and adjustments for net international migration. In accordance with usual practice, official population and labor force estimates for December 2015 and earlier months were not revised.