Over 1.1 million people in the US have lost their jobs this year — the highest number since the start of the pandemic

In 2025, more than 1.1 million workers have been laid off in the United States, according to data from Challenger, Gray & Christmas. This marks only the sixth time since 1993 that job cuts have surpassed this threshold, highlighting one of the most turbulent years for the labor market in recent decades.

The consulting firm reported that employers announced 1.17 million job reductions through November. This is the highest annual total since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread disruption across industries. Early in 2025, layoffs were especially pronounced, with over 600,000 positions eliminated by April, including 275,000 in March alone due to cuts in government roles in Washington, DC.

Historically, other years with significant layoffs include 2001 and 2002 during the dot-com bust, and 2009 amid the global financial crisis. However, 2020 remains the only year with more than 2 million job cuts through November.

In November 2025, 71,321 job cuts were announced, representing a 24% increase compared to the same month last year but a sharp decline from Octobers 153,074 cuts. Telecommunications led the sectoral layoffs last month with over 15,000 jobs cut, followed by approximately 12,000 in technology. Verizon alone revealed plans to lay off 13,000 employees. Economic conditions and corporate restructuring were cited as primary drivers behind these layoffs.

Across the year, the Department of Government Efficiency accounted for nearly 300,000 job cuts, making it the leading contributor. Additionally, automation and AI were responsible for around 55,000 layoffs in 2025.

Hiring trends have also slowed. Employers have reported nearly 500,000 planned hires through November, a 35% decrease from last year and the lowest year-to-date figure since 2010. While increased seasonal hiring around Black Friday and Thanksgiving may temporarily boost numbers in December, the long-term stability of these roles remains uncertain.

Author: Aiden Foster