Job Openings in 2025 Drop to 9.8 Million: Labor Market Shows Signs of Loosening
In May 2025, job vacancies in the U.S. declined to 9.8 million, marking the second-lowest level in over two years amid a softening labor market.
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Highlights to Know
- Job openings fell for the fourth consecutive month in May 2024, reflecting easing conditions in the labor market.
- The total available positions dropped to 9.8 million, the second-lowest count since early 2022.
- Worker resignations increased compared to the previous month, signaling ongoing shifts in employment dynamics.
Following a brief rise in April, job openings decreased by nearly 500,000 in May, continuing a trend of gradual decline as the previously tight labor market starts to relax.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 9.8 million jobs were open at the end of May 2024, down 496,000 from April. This marks the fourth monthly reduction this year and the lowest vacancy levels observed in more than two years.
The sectors experiencing the largest declines in job openings included healthcare and social assistance, which fell by 285,000 positions, and finance and insurance, down by 139,000. Conversely, openings grew in educational services by 45,000 jobs, state and local government education by 37,000, and the federal government by 24,000.
Meanwhile, the number of employees voluntarily leaving their jobs rose by 250,000 to reach 4 million in May. The healthcare and social assistance sector saw quits increase by 69,000, and the construction sector by 57,000.
The monthly Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) collects data from over 20,000 businesses and government agencies to provide insights into U.S. job vacancies, hiring, and separations. The report distinguishes separations into quits, layoffs, and other types such as retirements and deaths. Job vacancy figures are closely monitored as a key indicator of labor market demand.
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