Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 16
US Families Hit Record 52% With Both Parents Working Full-Time, Up 6% in a Decade
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 16

US Families Hit Record 52% With Both Parents Working Full-Time, Up 6% in a Decade

3 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 16

Summary

  • A record 52% of US families now have both parents working full-time, Pew said Tuesday, marking a 6% rise from a decade earlier.
  • College-educated mothers are driving the shift, with more choosing full-time rather than part-time work in 2025 than in 2000, based on Current Population Survey data.
  • Pew’s accompanying poll found 83% of married or cohabiting couples who both work full-time view the arrangement as a clear financial positive.
  • That same group was less unanimous on family effects, though 49% said having both partners employed full-time benefits their children’s well-being.

Insights

As 52% of families become dual-income, what systemic work reform is most critical for their survival and well-being?
With US labor growth near zero and AI transforming jobs, will two incomes be enough for families to prosper in the coming decade?