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Can Workers in Low-End Occupations Climb the Job Ladder?

Author

Listed:
  • Todd Gabe
  • Jaison R. Abel
  • Richard Florida

Abstract

There is growing concern over rising economic inequality, the decline of the middle class, and a polarization of the U.S. workforce. This study examines the extent to which workers in the United States transition from low-end to higher-quality occupations, and explores the factors associated with such a move up the job ladder. Using data covering the expansion following the Great Recession (2011-2017) and focusing on short-term (i.e., less than 1 year) labor market transitions, the authors find that just slightly more than 5% of workers in low-end occupations moved into a higher-quality occupation. Instead, around 70% of workers in low-end occupations stayed in the same occupation, 11% exited the labor force, 7% became unemployed, and 6% switched to a different low-end occupation. Study results point to the importance of educational attainment in helping workers successfully climb the job ladder.

Suggested Citation

  • Todd Gabe & Jaison R. Abel & Richard Florida, 2019. "Can Workers in Low-End Occupations Climb the Job Ladder?," Economic Development Quarterly, , vol. 33(2), pages 92-106, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecdequ:v:33:y:2019:i:2:p:92-106
    DOI: 10.1177/0891242419838324
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