Easier for Gen Z to Get a Job Without a College Degree? What Data Shows
Summary
New data shows that young workers without college degrees are finding jobs more easily than before, while recent college graduates face higher unemployment and underemployment. Although having a degree still provides some advantage, the gap in job opportunities between college and non-college workers is shrinking.Key Facts
- Unemployment is lower for workers with bachelor's degrees than for those without, but the difference is getting smaller.
- Recent college graduates (ages 22-27) had a 5.7% unemployment rate in the second quarter of 2026.
- About 42% of recent college grads work in jobs that do not require a four-year degree.
- Young workers without degrees are seeing strong job market conditions, especially in sectors with labor shortages like trades.
- The unemployment gap between college graduates and non-graduates is the smallest in 30 years.
- College degrees still help applicants stand out because employers receive many applications and can be selective.
- After the pandemic, college grads initially had easier job prospects, but now face challenges matching jobs to their education.
- Rising living costs make it harder for recent grads to maintain their lifestyle with available jobs.
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