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Employer Concentration and Labor Force Participation

Author

Listed:
  • Anqi Chen
  • Laura D. Quinby
  • Gal Wettstein

Abstract

This paper examines the association between employer concentration and labor outcomes (labor force participation and employment). It uses restricted data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Longitudinal Business Database to estimate, at the county level, to what extent more concentrated labor markets have lower labor force participation rates and lower employment. The analysis also examines whether unionization rates and education levels mediate these associations.

Suggested Citation

  • Anqi Chen & Laura D. Quinby & Gal Wettstein, 2022. "Employer Concentration and Labor Force Participation," Working Papers 22-08, Center for Economic Studies, U.S. Census Bureau.
    • Handle: RePEc:cen:wpaper:22-08
    as

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    File URL: https://www2.census.gov/ces/wp/2022/CES-WP-22-08.pdf
    File Function: First version, 2022
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    4. Dale Belman & Paul J. Wolfson, 2014. "What Does the Minimum Wage Do?," Books from Upjohn Press, W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, number wdmwd.
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    7. Efraim Benmelech & Nittai K. Bergman & Hyunseob Kim, 2022. "Strong Employers and Weak Employees: How Does Employer Concentration Affect Wages?," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 57(S), pages 200-250.
    8. Kevin Rinz, 2018. "Labor Market Concentration, Earnings Inequality, and Earnings Mobility," CARRA Working Papers 2018-10, Center for Economic Studies, U.S. Census Bureau.
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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