Entry-Level Job Postings Fell in May 2026

Data shows a 7.5 percent decline in entry-level openings compared to the previous year.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Employment

Entry-Level Job Postings Fell in May 2026

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Is the job market for new college graduates getting worse in the United States?

According to the Indeed Hiring Lab, entry-level job postings in the United States dropped by 7.5 percent in May 2026 relative to the same month the year prior. This decline continues a downward trend for entry-level opportunities that has persisted since a market peak in 2022.

Why it matters

Companies are shifting away from the aggressive hiring tactics seen during the pandemic and are now favoring a talent pool willing to accept junior roles for lower pay. This environment has made entry-level positions increasingly competitive as experienced workers continue to fill these roles.

A report from the Indeed Hiring Lab shows a 7.5 percent decline in entry-level postings vs. the prior year. Additionally, workers with 10 or more years of experience now represent 49 percent of all applicants for these entry-level roles.

The players

Indeed Hiring Lab

This organization tracks labor market trends and provides data-driven insights into hiring practices and job availability across the United States.

The details

Employers are currently utilizing applicant tracking systems to rigorously screen candidates by formatting and keywords. Simultaneously, the interview process for available positions has grown more complex and time-consuming for prospective hires.

2022 marked the peak for entry-level job postings before the current decline began.
Data from 2024 shows graduates in AI-disrupted majors faced a 5 percent drop in employment and 13 percent lower starting pay.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, the homeownership rate for US households headed by someone under 35 reached 37.9 percent.
May 2026 saw entry-level job postings fall 7.5 percent year-over-year.

Macro View

This decline reflects the broader shift toward employer-favorable hiring practices that have emerged following the competitive labor market of the pandemic. Current trends mirror historical adjustments where firms tighten requirements and prioritize cost-efficiency over rapid expansion.

Job seekers will likely encounter longer interview processes and higher competition from more experienced candidates for entry-level roles. This trend may further impact the financial stability of young households, who recently saw a 37.9 percent homeownership rate.

The takeaway

The current labor market forces new graduates and entry-level applicants to navigate more complex screening processes and greater competition. Focusing on gaining specific, non-automated skill sets may help applicants differentiate themselves in a tightening job market.