New York Manufacturing Activity Surged in October

By Dean Seal

Factory activity in New York State rose sharply in October to its highest level in nearly five years, according to the latest monthly edition of the Empire State Manufacturing Survey.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York said its statewide manufacturing index of business conditions hit 25.5, a nearly 18-point climb from September. A consensus of economists polled by The Wall Street Journal had expected a more modest jump to 10.3.

New orders saw a marked increase, and shipments grew as well, according to the survey.

The number of employees index came in at 10.3, holding steady near September and August's levels. The average workweek index was 9.1, suggesting modest growth in employment and a rise in hours worked.

Unfilled orders picked up, delivery times lengthened substantially and supply availability worsened further.

Pricing pressures remained elevated, with the prices received index ticking up three points to 30.6. The prices paid index slid four points to 59.5, coming down from a four-year peak reached in September.

Firms continue to expect conditions to improve in the months ahead, despite some moderation in optimism, the survey said.

Write to Dean Seal at dean.seal@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

October 15, 2026 08:30 ET (12:30 GMT)