ADP National Report 2019 provides a detailed snapshot of private payrolls across U.S. industries, capturing hiring trends and employment dynamics before the pandemic shock. This overview combines official data with contextual insights to help readers understand the scale and composition of ADP-covered wages in 2019.
By examining service-providing and goods-producing sectors, the report highlights which industries led job growth and which faced headwinds. The following sections break down key metrics and comparisons relevant to analysts, investors, and business leaders tracking workforce patterns.
| Metric | 2019 Value | 2018 Value | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Nonfarm Payroll (ADP estimate) | 123.2 million | 119.8 million | +3.7% |
| Goods-Producing Employment | 18.9 million | 18.5 million | +2.2% |
| Service-Providing Employment | 104.3 million | 101.3 million | +3.0% |
| Private Sector Share | 85.1% of total nonfarm | 84.7% of total nonfarm | +0.4 pp |
| Annual Average Payroll Growth Rate | 3.1% | 3.4% | -0.3 pp |
Workforce Composition by Sector 2019
Goods-Producing Industries
Goods-producing employment in 2019 climbed to 18.9 million, driven by steady gains in manufacturing and construction. The composition within this segment shifted, with durable goods leading modest expansion while energy extraction softened due to price volatility. These dynamics underscored the sector's sensitivity to global demand and capital spending cycles.
Service-Providing Industries
Service-providing industries represented the largest share of ADP-covered employment, reaching 104.3 million jobs in 2019. Professional and business services, healthcare, and retail trade were the main contributors, reflecting ongoing digitization and consumer spending resilience. This segment's breadth helped buffer the economy against headwinds in more cyclical industries.
Regional Payroll Distribution
Major Metropolitan Areas
Large metropolitan areas accounted for a disproportionate share of ADP-covered payrolls in 2019, with dense knowledge clusters amplifying productivity. Sun Belt metros recorded faster payroll growth, while traditional hubs focused on finance and technology maintained high wage intensity. This geography shaped local labor demand, housing pressure, and tax base trends.
Industry-Level Comparison 2018 vs 2019
| Industry | 2018 Payroll (thousands) | 2019 Payroll (thousands) | Net Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Services | 22,500 | 24,100 | +1,600 |
| Healthcare | 18,700 | 19,600 | +900 |
| Retail Trade | 15,200 | 15,500 | +300 |
| Manufacturing | 12,400 | 12,600 | +200 |
| Construction | 7,100 | 7,400 | +300 |
| Financial Activities | 9,800 | 9,900 | +100 |
Compensation Trends and Costs 2019
Wage Growth and Benefits
Average hourly earnings in ADP-covered groups edged up in 2019, supported by tight labor markets in many regions. Employers also adjusted benefits packages, adding to total compensation costs. The mix of wages, healthcare, and retirement contributions signaled competitive pressures in a late-cycle economy.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- 2019 ADP data signals solid private sector momentum with 3.1% annual payroll growth.
- Service-providing industries dominate employment and absorb most new hires.
- Regional metros drive payroll expansion, with Sun Belt growth outpacing traditional hubs.
- Compensation packages broadened, reflecting labor scarcity and retention needs.
- Cross-sector comparison highlights durable gains in professional services and healthcare.
FAQ
Reader questions
What does ADP National Report 2019 measure exactly?
It estimates private payrolls based on aggregated, anonymized data from ADP clients, covering roughly 40% of U.S. private payrolls and reflecting hiring and turnover across industries.
How does ADP 2019 compare with official government jobs data?
ADP figures align broadly with BLS nonfarm payroll changes but can differ in monthly prints due to scope, methodology, and timing adjustments used by the government.
Which industries had the strongest payroll growth in 2019?
Professional and business services, healthcare, and retail trade consistently posted above-average gains, while energy and some manufacturing segments were more subdued.
Why should investors and analysts care about ADP 2019 data?
These payroll trends offer early insight into consumer spending power, business confidence, and potential policy impacts, helping inform investment and risk assessments.