Why More Americans Are Unemployed For Longer
Over 1.8 million Americans have been classified as âlong-termâ unemployed in a given month in 2026, meaning they have been out of work for at
Over 1.8 million Americans have been classified as âlong-termâ unemployed in a given month in 2026, meaning they have been out of work for at least 27 weeks. That accounts for about a quarter of all unemployed Americans. Long-term unemployment has seen a sharp rise in the U.S., up about 55% from 2023 and 45% from 2019. The rising amount of long-term unemployed people is a sign of whatâs been dubbed the âlow-hire, low-fireâ environment.
With companies reluctant to increase headcounts amid higher interest rates and the rise of artificial intelligence, it becomes more difficult and can take longer for people to find a job. Producer: Juhohn Lee Reporter: Alex Harring Editor: Meline Rosales Animator: Christina Locopo Senior Managing Producer: Shawn Baldwin Additional Footage: Getty Images » Subscribe to CNBC » Subscribe to CNBC TV About CNBC: From 'Wall Street' to 'Main Street' to award winning original documentaries and Reality TV series, CNBC has you covered.
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