U.S. Strike Activity Declined in 2024 but Remained Historically High

Workers engaged in 359 work stoppages, totaling over 5 million strike days, as demands for better pay and conditions continued.

The number of U.S. work stoppages in 2024 dropped by 23.8% compared to 2023, with approximately 293,500 workers participating.
Strikes in 2024 accounted for 5.32 million strike days, reflecting sustained labor activity despite fewer large-scale actions compared to prior years.
Education workers represented the largest share of striking workers, while the manufacturing sector accounted for 40% of total strike days.
Top demands among striking workers remained consistent: better pay, improved health and safety, and increased staffing levels.
The decline in strike activity was partly attributed to fewer major contract expirations and a drop in one-day strikes by Starbucks Workers United.