The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index rose in October to a reading of 94.5 (1985=100) from 89.0 in September.

“Consumer confidence, which had declined in September, rebounded in October,” said Lynn Franco, director of economic indicators at The Conference Board. “A more favorable assessment of the current job market and business conditions contributed to the improvement in consumers’ view of the present situation. Looking ahead, consumers have regained confidence in the short-term outlook for the economy and labor market, and are more optimistic about their future earnings potential. With the holiday season around the corner, this boost in confidence should be a welcome sign for retailers.”

The number of consumers anticipating more jobs in the months ahead rose to 16.8 percent in October from 16.0 percent in September, according to the index’s survey. Those expecting fewer jobs fell to 13.9 percent from 16.9 percent.

Those saying jobs are “plentiful” edged up to 16.5 percent from 16.3 percent in the previous month’s survey; those claiming jobs are “hard to get” fell slightly to 29.1 percent from 29.4 percent in September.

MarketWatch reports consumer confidence is at a seven-year peak.