January is often a time for new beginnings, especially for young Americans eager to enter the workforce. But as 2025 begins, many struggle to land jobs due to a growing economic trend: “The Great Stay.” This phenomenon, where workers remain in their current positions rather than seeking new opportunities, limits job mobility—especially for young job seekers. But why are people staying put, and what does this mean for the next generation of workers?
What is the Great Stay?
The Great Stay is an economic phenomenon in which citizens of the United States withstand uncertainty by remaining within their current employers, job status, and roles, with no intention to move upwards in the industry or look for better opportunities elsewhere, according to business blog DZConneX. In other words, no risks are being taken from an economic standpoint. Strangely enough, this trend began shortly after the “Great Resignation,” which, in contrast to the Great Stay, marked a period where everybody seemed to be quitting their jobs in 2022. According to CNBC, 50.5 million Americans quit their jobs during the Great Resignation. So what changed? More importantly, how does this affect young Americans searching for work?
Why the Great Stay?
While it may seem counterproductive to remain in one job position and level for long periods, many believe it is not worth the risk in today’s unsteady economy. According to Forbes contributor Jack Kelly, high inflation, rising interest rates, and global conflicts are key drivers of The Great Stay. Forbes contributor Jack Kelly explains that high inflation, rising interest rates, and geopolitical conflicts have discouraged job movement. These events discourage job movement and contribute to financial instability. Many workers feel they can’t afford to take risks in an already struggling economy, making job security their top priority. However, reasoning differs for each individual and is entirely subjective to different lifestyles, choices, and circumstances.
How is This Affecting Young Americans?
Although The Great Stay provides stability for many, it has made job-hunting significantly harder for teenagers and 
young workers. Summer jobs are no longer easy to find; even year-round occupations are not hiring young people for extra cash. The reasoning? Entry-level jobs are being taken up by stagnant adult employees who are not looking for higher opportunities elsewhere. The idea that teenagers work at fast food restaurants is becoming invalid; as R.L. Nave reported for Reckon News, more than 70% of fast food workers are now 20 or older, with the share of 25-54-year-olds steadily increasing. What was seen as a job for young people has become a career for many adults. I experienced this struggle when searching for a job. Many restaurants, clothing stores, and shops told me they were “overstaffed” or “not currently hiring.” As an 18-year-old, finding a job was nearly impossible, with most of the positions I was applying for being occupied by much older employees.
While The Great Stay offers stability, young workers must navigate a challenging job market by seeking growth where possible. Success often requires calculated risks, and understanding these economic trends can help young Americans make informed career decisions.
