The number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits increased more than expected last week, but remained at levels consistent with a healthy labor market.

Weekly jobless claims in the United States have fallen to an 11-month low, signaling a resilient labor market even as hiring activity slows. The decline underscores a steady pace of layoffs, reflecting broader economic stability,

The number of Americans who filed for initial jobless benefits rose last week, according to the Department of Labor, but remained within the range that has become typical in recent months. The week through Jan.