A new national survey shows that, with confidence in the economy and job market low in early 2026, most workers are choosing stability over ambition.
The report, “The Great Stay: 2026 State of the Labor Market,” finds that fears of layoffs, burnout, and economic instability persist, even as panic has cooled from its 2025 highs. The report and survey were commissioned by MyPerfectResume, a resume-building platform.
Among the results: One in three workers (32%) fear losing their jobs in 2026, and 59% expect layoffs to rise nationwide. Nearly half (49%) believe the labor market will worsen, while two-thirds (65%) say they do not plan to look for a job in the coming year.
Key Findings:
- 32% are worried about losing their job in 2026.
- 49% believe the labor market will worsen in 2026 (up from 34% in 2025).
- 42% believe layoffs are likely at their company next year.
- 59% expect layoffs to rise nationally in 2026.
- 65% say they don’t plan to look for a new job in 2026.
- Inflation and the cost of living (38%) are the top worries for workers in 2026.
“Workers aren’t quitting, they’re clinging,” said Jasmine Escalera, Career Expert at MyPerfectResume. “The Great Stay is no longer just about job loyalty; it’s about survival. Americans are choosing security over change, trying to outlast what they fear could be another unstable year for the economy and workplace morale.”
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Economic Pessimism and Job Market Outlook
Pessimism continues to cloud the outlook for 2026.
- 49% believe the labor market will worsen in 2026 (up from 34% in 2025).
- 51% expect more business closures in 2026
- 80% express concern about a recession
Workers may feel less panic, but they’re still preparing for a rough ride.
Burnout Expected to Rise, Again
Burnout remains a defining feature of work life, and its prevalence is worsening.
- Half of workers (50%) expect burnout to increase in 2026
- Top burnout drivers shifted slightly year over year:
- Increased workload: 31%
- Lack of work-life balance: 24%
- Job insecurity: 23%
- Poor management or culture: 20%
The shift suggests that while job insecurity has eased, chronic overwork and poor culture are taking its place.
Stability Over Change
The hallmark of The Great Stay remains workers’ reluctance to move.
- 65% say they don’t plan to look for a new job in 2026.
- The top reasons include satisfaction with their current job or pay (23%), economic uncertainty (14%), and the belief that better opportunities don’t exist (11%).
In 2025, the workforce was similarly hesitant, signaling a lasting shift toward risk aversion and self-preservation.
Skills and Side Income: Interest Without Action
Workers recognize the importance of adaptability but are proceeding cautiously.
- 54% are open to upskilling in 2026
- 52% are open to freelance or gig work
While enthusiasm for skill development and side work remains high, fewer employees are taking action, which may indicate fatigue or financial constraints.
Return-to-Office Expectations Cool
After an overwhelming 88% of workers predicted more return-to-office mandates in 2025, expectations have cooled:
- 49% now expect more RTO mandates in 2026.
- 41% think the situation will remain the same.
- 9% expect fewer mandates.
The shift suggests employees believe hybrid work has stabilized after several years of turbulence.
Top Worker Worries for 2026
- Inflation and cost of living (38%)
- Burnout and mental health (17%)
- Not finding a new job if needed (14%)
- Salary stagnation (12%)
View the full report at https://www.myperfectresume.com/career-center/careers/basics/the-great-stay-2026.
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Tags: career, economy, job search, jobs, labor market, Payroll, resume, resume builder
