Monthly Share of Prime-Age U.S. Workers Who Leave the Labor Force After a Layoff

This dataset tracks monthly share of prime-age u.s. workers who leave the labor force after a layoff over time.

Latest Value

0.33

Year-over-Year Change

-10.09%

Date Range

1/1/1978 - 6/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the monthly share of prime-age U.S. workers who leave the labor force after experiencing a layoff. It provides insights into the labor force participation decisions of displaced workers.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The Monthly Share of Prime-Age U.S. Workers Who Leave the Labor Force After a Layoff tracks the percentage of workers aged 25-54 who exit the labor force entirely following a job loss. This metric helps analysts understand the longer-term employment impacts of economic disruptions.

Methodology

The data is collected through household surveys by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Historical Context

This trend is used by policymakers and economists to assess the broader labor market effects of recessions and structural economic changes.

Key Facts

  • The average rate is around 20% over the past two decades.
  • Rates tend to spike during economic downturns.
  • Women are more likely than men to leave the labor force after a layoff.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the monthly share of prime-age U.S. workers aged 25-54 who exit the labor force entirely after experiencing a layoff or job loss.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric provides insight into the longer-term labor force participation decisions of displaced workers, which is crucial for understanding the broader social and economic impacts of recessions and job losses.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly household surveys conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and economists analyze this trend to assess the labor market effects of economic disruptions and inform decisions around workforce development, unemployment benefits, and other policies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: There is typically a 1-2 month delay in the release of this data, and the survey-based methodology may have sampling limitations for certain demographic groups.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly Share of Prime-Age U.S. Workers Who Leave the Labor Force After a Layoff (EMSHRNLP), retrieved from FRED.
Economic Data: Monthly Share of Prime-Age U.S. Workers Wh...