Survey: Majority of hourly workers in U.S. struggling to make ends meet

Hourly workers are increasingly feeling the long-term impact of high inflation, high interest rates, and limited purchasing power, according to a new survey from Deputy, a global people platform for hourly work.

The San Francisco-based company’s new “State of Hourly Work Report” — based on survey responses from more than 1,000 hourly workers in the United States — indicates 21% of hourly workers are unable to cover their current living expenses, while 41% manage to cover expenses but live paycheck to paycheck. Gender disparities further complicate this picture, with 23% of women and 15% of men unable to meet their financial needs. Meanwhile, 35% of women and 44% of men can cover expenses and have money left over each month.

The report examines the trends, challenges, and opportunities related to income, poly-employment, perspectives on AI, and job stability and satisfaction.

Here are other key findings:

Income predictability challenges

Income predictability remains a challenge for many workers — especially in industries like retail and hospitality, where scheduling could be more consistent. According to the survey, 53% of U.S. hourly workers report their income is “very predictable,” 38% say it is “fairly predictable,” and 9% describe it as “not predictable.”

Rise of poly-employment

More hourly workers are turning to multiple jobs to make ends meet. The report finds that 27% of hourly workers hold two or more jobs — a growing trend known as poly-employment. Leading this trend is Gen X, with 33% holding multiple jobs, compared to 20% of Gen Z, 24% of millennials, and 19% of baby boomers.

Mixed feelings on AI and the future of work

When it comes to AI, workers widely agree that it will change their jobs, but opinions on its impact are divided. While 72% of hourly workers agree that AI will change their roles, only 45% feel enthusiastic about its potential. Perhaps surprisingly, enthusiasm is higher among older workers, with 50% of millennials, 49% of Gen X, and 44% of baby boomers expressing optimism. However, Gen Z is more anxious, with 33% worried about AI’s impact, and just 7% expressing enthusiasm.

Related: Nearly 1 in 3 North American employees unable to meet basic needs, research finds

Link between financial stability and job satisfaction

The report underscores a strong connection between financial stability and overall job satisfaction. Of workers who love their jobs, 72% report having very predictable income, 46% can cover their living expenses with money left over, and 41% are regularly able to save for the future. In stark contrast, 74% of those who dislike or hate their jobs cannot save for the future, and 39% are unable to cover their current living expenses.

“The State of Hourly Work Report offers valuable insights into the financial realities faced by hourly workers in the U.S. and around the world,” Silvija Martincevic, Deputy’s CEO, said in a statement. “What stands out to me is the resilience of this workforce and the critical importance of predictability — whether it’s in their schedules, income, or job security. There is a clear link between financial stability and job satisfaction, and when workers feel more secure in their finances, they are better positioned to engage, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to their workplaces.”