Iowa is entering 2027 facing a workforce challenge that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: More Iowans are retiring, putting pressure on an already limited supply of workers. Between July 2025 and July 2026, U.S. Census data shows that about 75,000 Iowans retired — an average of more than 200 people a day. A...
Iowa is entering 2027 facing a workforce challenge that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: More Iowans are retiring, putting pressure on an already limited supply of workers. Between July 2025 and July 2026, U.S. Census data shows that about 75,000 Iowans retired — an average of more than 200 people a day. At the same time, Iowa’s population is growing slowly, limiting the number of younger workers available to replace those leaving the workforce. Bright spots exist, though. Iowa continues to have strong demand for healthcare workers and workers in the skilled trades, and employers are looking for new ways to attract and retain talent. Career and technical education programs are expanding, while some employers are finding ways to keep older workers engaged through flexible schedules and phased retirement. At our Jobs Outlook, the Business Record will be joined by a panel of leaders who will help us look at what the 2027 job market might bring.
