Teen Summer Jobs Fall to Record Low 790,000 in 2026 as Hiring Slows
Updated
Updated · IndexBox, Inc. · Jun 9
Teen Summer Jobs Fall to Record Low 790,000 in 2026 as Hiring Slows
3 articles · Updated · IndexBox, Inc. · Jun 9
Summary
Challenger, Gray & Christmas projects just 790,000 teen jobs for May through July 2026, below last summer’s 801,000 and the weakest summer hiring period on record.
30.4% of 16- to 19-year-olds worked last summer, down from a 49.1% peak in 1978, as teens spend more time on coursework and test prep while employers post fewer entry-level openings.
ZipRecruiter data shows entry-level jobs make up a smaller share of listings than a year ago, and Indeed said competition for those roles has intensified even as the mix of openings changed little.
5.6% unemployment among recent college graduates aged 22 to 27 in early 2026 underscores the broader risk: economists say missing early work experience can weaken post-graduation job prospects and future earnings.