favicon

T4K3.news

Gen Z college graduates face high unemployment rates

New data reveals rising unemployment rates among young male college graduates, comparable to non-grads.

July 22, 2025 at 04:33 PM
blur Gen Z men with college degrees now have the same unemployment rate as non-grads-a sign that the higher education payoff is dead

A new analysis reveals troubling trends for Gen Z college graduates in the job market.

Gen Z college graduates face rising unemployment rates amid job market shifts

Recent data from the Federal Reserve shows that recent college graduates, particularly young men, are experiencing rising unemployment rates. Currently, the rate for young male college graduates is around 5.5%, which is comparable to the rate for non-graduates. This trend highlights a significant change in the job market, suggesting that a college degree may no longer guarantee employment. While the unemployment rate for young women with degrees is lower at about 4%, men are increasingly feeling the strain. As the overall share of young people pursuing college declines, a noticeable shift towards skilled trades is emerging, particularly among young men. The trend reflects a changing sentiment regarding the value of higher education.

Key Takeaways

✔️
Gen Z college graduates face rising unemployment rates.
✔️
Young men with degrees have comparable rates to non-graduates.
✔️
The job market emphasizes skills over formal education.
✔️
Healthcare roles are experiencing significant growth.
✔️
Young women are more flexible in job choices compared to men.
✔️
Interest in skilled trades is increasing among young men.

""Vocational training is a huge field with huge opportunities that pays really, really well.""

This quote from Daniel Lubetzky emphasizes the potential of vocational careers as a viable alternative to college degrees.

""Men often hold out for roles that align closely with their ideal career path.""

Lewis Maleh highlights the differing job acceptance strategies between young men and women in today's job market.

""Healthcare is a classic recession-resistant industry because medical care is always in demand.""

Priya Rathod underlines the stability of healthcare jobs, which may attract more graduates in the future.

""Many young men feel hopeless after months—or years—on the job search.""

This quote reflects the emotional toll of the current job market on young male graduates.

The rising unemployment rates among Gen Z college graduates signal a significant shift in employment dynamics. For years, higher education was viewed as the golden ticket to job security. However, as employers prioritize skills and adaptable experiences over formal degrees, young job seekers face hurdles previously unseen. The divergence in employment rates between young men and women also illustrates shifting labor market demands, especially in growing fields like healthcare. This generational struggle may encourage a new perspective on career training and vocational pathways, often perceived as more viable options than traditional college degrees.

Highlights

  • A college degree no longer guarantees a job for Gen Z men.
  • More young men are turning to skilled trades due to poor job prospects.
  • The traditional value of higher education is diminishing.
  • Healthcare jobs may offer the stability Gen Z needs.

Rising unemployment among college graduates poses economic challenges

The growing unemployment rates for Gen Z college graduates could lead to increased social and economic instability. As more graduates struggle to find work, there may be a backlash against higher education institutions, questioning their value and effectiveness.

This trend may reshape how future generations view educational pathways.

Enjoyed this? Let your friends know!

Related News