A new forecast predicts that summer teen hiring could hit its lowest level since 1948. According to Challenger, Gray & Christmas, employers are expected to add only 790,000 jobs for workers aged 16-19 this summer, down from last year's record low of 801,000.
Why is this happening?
Experts point to several key factors:
- Persistent inflation and rising costs are squeezing small businesses that traditionally hire teens, such as amusement parks, restaurants, and summer camps.
- Automation and AI are replacing entry-level tasks like order-taking and scheduling.
- Older workers are staying in the workforce longer, competing for the same part-time and seasonal positions.
Impact on key industries
Hiring in the entertainment and leisure sectors has dropped significantly. Through April, employers in these sectors announced just 8,261 hiring plans—down 70% from the same period last year.
What does this mean for teens?
The classic summer job—scooping ice cream, working at a theme park, or camp counseling—is becoming harder to land. Andy Challenger, labor expert, notes that this slowdown is happening even without a recession, highlighting structural changes in the job market.
For teens, it may be time to explore alternative opportunities like internships, freelancing, or skill-building programs to stay competitive.
Credit: Boston Globe via Getty Images
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