The news interrupted a run of strong demand that fueled optimism for a soft landing.
Housing, insurance and commodity prices have been among the contributors.
The unemployment rate fell to 3.8%, while participation rose.
Layoffs continue to mount across multiple sectors.
The consumer price index increased 3.4% in the year through December, the most in three months.
There's less pessimism around sales, earnings trends and economic expectations.
The acceleration in payrolls is at odds with recent reports that have depicted a softer hiring pace.
US employers expect the total benefit cost per employee to rise 5.4% on average next year.
Real yields also continue to rise, likely signaling the need for even more restrictive monetary policy.
The contract rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage increased 12 basis points to 6.69%.