Archive · 20 Jun 2025
Career Changes Surge Across US Workforce After Pandemic
Lots of people in the US are changing careers, not just jobs.
After the pandemic, many workers wanted more flexible jobs, better pay, and work that felt important.
About 64% of people who switched jobs also switched careers.
Some industries, like hotels and childcare, lost many workers.
Workers are choosing careers that fit their values, with remote work being a big factor.
Jobs that need special training or education see less turnover.
This shows that how Americans think about their jobs is changing.
A significant shift in the US workforce involves workers changing careers.
64% of job switchers between 2022-2024 moved into different career fields.
Remote work and better work-life balance are primary drivers for career changes.
Hospitality, arts & entertainment, and childcare saw high rates of departures.
Nursing, software development, and accounting show lower turnover rates.
- Who
- US workers.
- What
- A trend of US workers switching careers, driven by a desire for better pay, flexibility, and purpose.
- When
- The trend occurred between 2022 and 2024 and continues to be observed in 2024.
- Where
- United States.
- Why
- Driven by factors like the pandemic, a desire for better work-life balance, higher pay, and more meaningful work.
Workers Seeking Change
Industries Affected
Drivers of Career Change
Workers Seeking Change
Workers prioritize jobs that offer remote work, better work-life balance, and fulfillment.
Industries Affected
Some industries face higher rates of departures, leading to workforce challenges.
- Percentage of Career Changers (2022-2024)
- 64%
- Top reason for change
- Remote work
- Industries with High Departure Rates
- Hospitality & Tourism, Arts & Entertainment, Childcare, Logistics, Personal Care
- Industries with Lower Turnover
- Nursing, Software Development, Dental Professions, Therapy, Accounting
- Median Job Tenure (Jan 2024)
- 3.9 years