The data from the Labor Department revealed on Thursday the number of applications for unemployment benefits rose less than forecast last week, suggesting the U.S. labor market continues to tighten even as the pace of job growth is slowing.

According to the report, the initial claims for unemployment benefits increased by 6,000 to a seasonally adjusted 211,000 for the week ended January 18.

Economists had expected 215,000 new claims last week.

Claims for the prior week were revised upwardly to 205,000 from the initial estimate of 204,000.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims dropped 3,250 to 213,250 last week, the lowest level since September.