The 2026 State of the Workforce Report examines the demographic, economic, and labor market trends shaping the future of the Greater Portland Region.

The report indicates slowing population growth, rising affordability pressures, workforce shortages, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence as challenges, while outlining strategies to strengthen the regional talent pipeline and support long-term economic prosperity.

Regional workforce at-a-glance:

• 0% projected population growth from 2024 to 2034
• 90,000 net residents lost through domestic migration from April 2020 to July 2024
• 23,400 degrees awarded in 2025, a 22% decrease from five years earlier
• 24% of the workforce is age 55 or older
• 477,561 jobs are within the region’s four target sectors, representing 34% of regional employment

What the data tells us: 

• The talent pipeline is shrinking. Fewer young people and an aging workforce mean fewer future workers.
• Affordability affects the workforce. High housing and childcare costs make it harder to attract and retain workers.
• Skills needs are changing. AI is transforming jobs and increasing the need for upskilling.
• Regional opportunities remain strong. Key industries continue to offer significant career opportunities.

Moving forward: Meeting our workforce needs requires regional collaboration to retain talent, expand career pathways and prepare workers for changing skill demands.

Read the full report.