Labor force participation
% of civilians ages 16 and older working or looking for work

Note: Refer to the methodology for definitions and further details.
Source: Pew Research Center analysis of 1970, 1980, 1990 and 2000 decennial census, and 2010, 2019 and 2024 American Community Survey (IPUMS).
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
Labor force participation
% of civilians ages 16 and older working or looking for work
| Year | All |
|---|---|
| 1970 | 58% |
| 1980 | 62% |
| 1990 | 66% |
| 2000 | 65% |
| 2010 | 65% |
| 2019 | 64% |
| 2024 | 65% |
Note: Refer to the methodology for definitions and further details.
Source: Pew Research Center analysis of 1970, 1980, 1990 and 2000 decennial census, and 2010, 2019 and 2024 American Community Survey (IPUMS).
PEW RESEARCH CENTER