A new policy brief from the Public Policy Institute of California says the path from school to work is changing for young Californians, with many reaching major milestones later than earlier generations. The researchers say these shifts reflect changing economic conditions, rising education levels, and new challenges facing teens and young adults.
The report finds that young people today are more likely to stay in school longer and earn degrees, but many still struggle to connect to stable jobs. As the brief notes, “While these young adults are a small share—roughly 11% of 16- to 24-year-olds in California—they amount to nearly half a million young adults.”
The brief says unemployment has increased for young Californians since 2022. Roughly “11% of 16–24-year-olds were not in school or working in 2024—lower than post-Great Recession but higher than pre-pandemic.” The researchers also point out that young adults now tend to live with parents longer, delay marriage, and have fewer children, even as more people earn four-year degrees.
Fewer Californians between 16 and 22 are working compared to earlier generations. But those 24 and older work at higher rates, which the authors link to stronger economic conditions after the Great Recession and rising education levels.
As the report puts it, “About half of Californians aged 24 are employed (56 %), 16% are working while in school, and 10% are still in school (and not working).” The report notes that men work at slightly higher rates than women, although the gap has narrowed over time.
The researchers also highlight racial and gender disparities. Young Black and Latino Californians have higher rates of being out of school and work compared to White and Asian peers.
Yet the brief states, “Compared to earlier generations, young Californians today are in school and/or work at higher rates.” For instance, about 12% of 20-year-olds born between 2003–2005 were disconnected, versus 16% of those born between 1985–87.
The authors say California can support young adults by expanding job training, strengthening school support systems, and using statewide data to identify students at risk of falling behind in work or education. They note that “the biggest rise in disconnection happens around the end of high school” and recommend programs that “connect schoolwork with college and career readiness.”
The report states that California’s economic future depends on helping young adults stay linked to school and work. The researchers call for stronger job training, better school support, and improved data systems to identify students at risk. They add that targeted help in the final years of high school could keep more young people on track to reach key education and employment milestones.
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Article By: Bo Tefu, Califirnia Black Media
