Long-Term US Unemployment Surges Above 1.8 Million
The number of Americans unemployed for 27 weeks or longer has averaged over 1.8 million in 2024, according to a CNBC analysis of BLS data. This is roughly 45% higher than 2019 levels and 55% above 2023.
The number of Americans out of work for 27 weeks or longer has averaged more than 1.8 million so far this year, according to a CNBC analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Compared to pre-pandemic 2019, long-term unemployment is up roughly 45%. Versus the prior year (2023), the figure is approximately 55% higher. The data underscores persistent weakness in the labor market despite low headline unemployment rates.
Source: First Squawk