Global workforce reality check – Why so many workers are still struggling despite record employment levels
Despite reaching record-high global employment in 2024, millions of workers are still struggling to keep up with rising living costs.
According to ADP’s Global Workforce View 2024, more than half of workers worldwide report living paycheck to paycheck, revealing a deep disconnect between employment rates and true financial well-being.
ADP surveyed nearly 38,000 working adults across 34 countries in mid-2024.
The results were striking: 57% of workers say they struggle to pay their bills.
Even among full-time employees, 54% are living paycheck to paycheck — a clear signal that having a job isn’t always enough to ensure economic stability.
To bridge this financial gap, many people are turning to side jobs and gig work.
Globally, 23% of surveyed workers reported holding two or more jobs, with the number climbing as high as 34% in the Middle East and Africa.
But even with multiple sources of income, the pressure doesn’t always ease. Among workers with two jobs, 59% still live paycheck to paycheck.
For those with three or more jobs, that figure rises to 61%.
Why are workers taking on extra jobs?
The reasons for holding multiple jobs go beyond financial survival.
ADP’s survey highlights a broad range of motivations:
| Reason for working multiple jobs | 2 jobs | 3+ jobs |
| Cover necessary expenses | 51% | 50% |
| Save for an extra expense | 49% | 45% |
| Build savings or retirement | 40% | 38% |
| Build job experience | 35% | 37% |
| Fund education or training | 27% | 30% |
| Send money to family or friends abroad | 21% | 24% |
| Lack of full-time opportunities | 14% | 17% |
Notably, younger workers (under 40) are more likely to take on additional jobs to build experience and fund education or skills training.
This trend reflects a workforce eager to future-proof their careers — but also one burdened by limited opportunities and rising costs.
The gig economy – A double-edged sword
In regions such as Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia, many workers rely on informal or gig-based jobs.
These economies are often unregulated, meaning workers face limited protections, unstable income, and a lack of benefits.
Multiple income streams may offer flexibility, but they don’t guarantee financial security.
In fact, workers in these environments often juggle short-term contracts, cash-based side hustles, and part-time roles just to meet basic needs.
A system under pressure
The global economy may be growing, but wage growth is not keeping pace with inflation and the cost of living.
Even in regions with strong employment figures, people are working more — often with less to show for it.
The reality is clear:
- Holding more than one job is becoming the norm, not the exception.
- Younger generations are prioritizing experience and education, often at financial cost.
- True financial well-being remains out of reach for many, despite record employment.
What’s next for employers and policymakers?
Business and HR leaders must understand that employment alone no longer guarantees economic stability.
Strategies to retain and support talent — especially younger and lower-wage workers — must evolve.
This includes:
- Offering flexible benefits and financial wellness programs
- Recognizing and supporting workers with multiple jobs
- Providing access to training and upskilling for career mobility
- Addressing compensation gaps with real wage growth
Get the full global picture
Download ADP’s Global Workforce View 2024 to uncover deeper insights into today’s most pressing workforce challenges — from income insecurity to the gig economy.
Learn how workers across 34 markets are adapting, what they expect from employers, and what your business can do to lead in a rapidly changing world of work.
Loading ...
