Workers' Share of U.S. Economic Output Hits Record Low
U.S. workers' share of economic output dropped to 53.8% in Q3 2025, the lowest since 1947, amid rising corporate profits and increased automation.
U.S. workers' share of economic output has declined to 53.8% in Q3 2025, the lowest level since records began in 1947.
Declining Labor Share
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the labor share fell from 54.6% in the previous quarter to 53.8% in Q3 2025. This continues a downward trend from the 55.6% average seen in the 2020s. ([fortune.com](https://fortune.com/2026/01/13/us-workers-smallest-labor-share-gdp-on-record/?utm_source=openai))
Rising Corporate Profits
Despite the declining labor share, corporate profits have surged. Fortune 500 companies reported record profits of $1.87 trillion in 2024, indicating that economic gains are increasingly accruing to capital rather than labor. ([fortune.com](https://fortune.com/2026/01/13/us-workers-smallest-labor-share-gdp-on-record/?utm_source=openai))
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Impact of Automation
Increased adoption of automation and artificial intelligence is contributing to higher productivity with fewer workers, further reducing labor's share of economic output. ([cryptopolitan.com](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/u-s-workers-smallest-share-of-gdp-since-1947/?utm_source=openai))
Options Market and Stocks to Watch
Investors should monitor sectors heavily investing in automation, as these trends may impact labor costs and profit margins. Companies like Amazon (AMZN) and Tesla (TSLA) are notable examples.
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