July 2, 2025 – The U.S. job market is witnessing a surprising wave of resignations in 2025, with the quit rate holding steady at 2.2% in May, translating to 3.5 million workers leaving their jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This uptick, reminiscent of the 2021-2022 Great Resignation, signals a shift from 2024’s “Great Stay,” where workers prioritized stability. Experts point to several drivers behind this renewed churn.

Rising living costs are pushing workers to seek higher-paying roles, with 63% of 2021 quitters citing low pay as a key factor, per Pew Research. The pandemic’s lasting impact has also reshaped priorities, with 46% of workers globally reporting burnout and 45% demanding better work-life balance, according to Microsoft’s Work Trend Index. Remote work, now a non-negotiable for many, is driving job switches, as employees favor flexibility over traditional benefits.

Economic uncertainty under the new Trump administration’s policies, including potential tariffs, adds complexity. Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor, notes that while a cooling inflation rate could embolden workers to seek better opportunities, policy shifts might temper this trend. Meanwhile, industries like hospitality and retail, which saw 892,000 and 721,000 quits respectively in 2021, continue to face high turnover due to demanding conditions.

Despite a robust job market with 7.8 million openings in May, experts like Brian Marks urge caution, citing potential volatility. Workers are advised to secure new roles before quitting, as sectors like tech and middle-management face cuts. As employees chase flexibility, higher pay, and respect, 2025 could redefine the American workforce.