Workers are pulling back from job searches and prioritizing stability as economic uncertainty becomes the new normal, according to a survey of 1,504 U.S. workers.
Only 43 per cent of workers plan to job search in 2026, down sharply from 93 per cent who reported the same intention in 2025, according to Monster’s 2026 WorkWatch Report.
The survey found workers are managing risk more carefully and protecting income rather than pursuing career advancement. Many are turning to side hustles and upskilling to build financial resilience.
Widespread concern about job market
Forty per cent of workers expect the job market to worsen in 2026, while another 40 per cent expect no improvement, according to the survey conducted in December 2025.
More than half of workers, 52 per cent, expect nationwide layoffs to increase. Another 13 per cent say layoffs at their company are extremely likely, while 34 per cent say they are somewhat likely.
A separate Monster study in October 2025 found 75 per cent of employees plan to stay in their current roles through 2027.
Inflation remains top concern
Fifty-eight per cent of workers said their biggest concern for 2026 is that their salary will not keep up with inflation. Fifty-seven per cent reported their current pay has already fallen behind inflation.
Workers ranked salary increases as their top priority for 2026 at 73 per cent, followed by flexible work schedules at 58 per cent and better work-life balance at 54 per cent.
Without a raise, 47 per cent of workers said they would cut back on expenses, while 38 per cent would look for a new job and 29 per cent would delay major purchases or life plans.
Inflation shaped career decisions in 2025, with 38 per cent of workers looking for or accepting higher-paying jobs, 21 per cent cutting back on retirement contributions, and 16 per cent taking on second jobs.
Side hustles become standard practice
Nearly two-thirds of workers are turning to extra income streams. Thirty-two per cent already hold a side hustle and 30 per cent plan to start one in 2026, according to the survey.
Sixty-four per cent of workers said they are likely to pursue upskilling or training in 2026, while 35 per cent completed professional training or certification in 2025.
The jobseeker mindset: 2025 versus 2026
| Dimension | 2025 Job Seeker | 2026 Job Seeker |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Mindset | Cautiously Optimistic | Realistic and Risk-Aware |
| View of Uncertainty | Temporary Disruption | Ongoing Condition |
| Career Strategy | Explore Options, Test the Market | Protect Stability |
| Job Mobility | High Intent to Move (93% planning to job search) | Selective Movement (only 43% planning to job search) |
| Response to Inflation | Seek Higher-Paying Roles | Add Side Income, Cut Risk, Upskill |
| Upskilling | Nice-to-Have Advantage | Required to Stay Competitive |
| Side Hustles | Supplemental Opportunity | Built-in Financial Buffer |
| Confidence in Market | Belief that Better Options Exist | Concern Opportunities May Narrow |
| Definition of Career Success | Advancement and Growth | Resilience and Optionality |
Return to office creates tension
Half of workers, 50 per cent, are required to be in the office five days a week, yet 31 per cent said they would not apply to fully in-office roles.
Fifty-one per cent of workers said they are most productive in the office, while 29 per cent said they are more productive working remotely and 21 per cent prefer hybrid environments.
Forty-two per cent of workers believe companies will increase in-office requirements in 2026, while 44 per cent expect requirements to stay the same.
Half of workers, 50 per cent, know someone who was required to return to the office in 2025, including 14 per cent who were required to return themselves.
AI concerns grow
Forty-nine per cent of workers are concerned AI could threaten their job or industry, with 17 per cent very concerned and 32 per cent somewhat concerned.
Forty per cent expect moderate job reductions in their industry by the end of 2026 due to AI, while nine per cent expect large-scale job losses. Only four per cent believe AI will create more jobs than it eliminates.
AI adoption remains uneven, with 42 per cent of workers saying they do not use AI at all. Among those who do, 30 per cent use it for basic tasks such as emails and scheduling, 19 per cent for advanced tasks like coding and data analysis, and 18 per cent for job applications.
The survey was conducted Dec. 15, 2025, and included workers across industries, generations and education levels. Respondents were 56 per cent female, 43 per cent male, and less than one per cent non-binary or preferring not to answer.
