Meet the millions of young adults who are out o f work

Abstract

In theory, the path to employment providing financial security in adulthood is simple: Finish high school, enroll in and complete college or training that is affordable and a good fit, gain some work experience along the way, and launch a career. Yet the data are clear that this path does not work equally well for all. This report and accompanying interactive data tool provide a unique perspective on young adults ages 18-24 who are out of work, focusing on those in mid to large cities and counties. We use cluster analysis to segment out-of-work young adults into groups likely to benefit from similar types of employment and education-related assistance, based on factors such as educational attainment, work history, school enrollment, disability, English language proficiency, and family status. Through the cluster analysis, we identify five groups of out-of-work young adults, and then introduce fictionalized personas as examples of people in each of the groups. Lastly, the report provides recommendations for state, local, civic, and institutional leaders to help more young people successfully navigate the transition into the labor market.