DTMB releases summer 2026 job market forecast for Michigan teens (ages 16-19)

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget today released its summer (June–August) teen employment forecast for 2026. Summer is an important time of the year for teen workers. Some of them are trying to find good jobs after high school graduation, and many others are seeking temporary work to earn money or improve their resume. This annual inflow of new jobseekers will contribute to a competitive labor market during the summer 2026 season.

“While Michigan’s unemployment rate overall has been steady for many months, the teen unemployment rate has been trending upwards,” said Wayne Rourke, labor market information director for the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics. “There is high demand in many of the industries that typically hire teen workers, so young job seekers will have to remain vigilant when applying for jobs.”

Source: Michigan Center for Data and Analytics, Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget

The unemployment rate for Michigan teens ages 16 to 19 averaged 18.1 percent in 2025, slightly higher than in 2023 and 2024 when the average was closer to 13 percent. Similarly, national data shows that the teen unemployment rate has increased from 10.5 percent in early 2023 to 14.1 percent in the first quarter of 2026.

Michigan’s population of teens ages 16 to 19 is projected to be 515,000 in 2026, and nearly half of them are expected to participate in the labor market this summer. This means there will be a quarter million teens either working or seeking a job. With an anticipated unemployment rate of 18.0 percent this summer, 207,100 teens are expected to be working on average from June to August, while 45,400 will be unemployed.

Industries that traditionally employ large numbers of teens such as Retail trade and Accommodation and food services will continue to offer the greatest number of summer job opportunities. Occupations such as Retail salesperson, Fast food and counter worker, and Stocker and order filler are some of the most in-demand entry-level occupations every month. These jobs typically provide flexible hours and require minimal prior experience, making them well‑suited for teens entering the workforce.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity recently announced a new Youth Workers’ Rights Initiative designed to help young workers better understand workplace safety, fair pay, work permits, wage protections, and where to go for help if problems arise on the job.  

Teens preparing for summer jobs are encouraged to learn explore these new resources at michigan.gov/youthemployment. Here they’ll find easy-to-use resources to gain the knowledge and confidence they need to enter the workforce safely and successfully. Young job seekers can also connect with their local Michigan Works! office for help with resume development, job searches, and access to Pure Michigan Talent Connect.

More statistical information about Michigan's economy, labor force, population and more is available at Michigan.gov/LMI or through the MiEconomy app available for iOS and Android.