03/29/2024

U.S. Workers Report Highest Job Satisfaction Since 2005

Just more than half of U.S. workers—51%—said they were satisfied with their jobs in 2017, the highest level since 2005, according to a new report from The Conference Board, a business-research group.

Over the past seven years, Americans report feeling better about their pay along with a greater sense of job security, both features of an economy with a low unemployment rate and a long decline in layoffs. In July, jobless claims continued an extended post-recession slide and hit their lowest level in nearly 50 years.

Workers on the higher end of the income scale are happier than their less-affluent counterparts. Nearly 58% of those with total household income above $75,000 report feeling satisfied at work, compared with around 45% of those from households earning less than $75,000.

“These are higher-skilled workers, managers, and they tend to have more control over their day-to-day work activities,” said Rebecca Ray, leader of The Conference Board’s human capital practice. “Having more control can drive a lot of how you feel about the job.”

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