More than half of millennials now polyworking: Academized survey
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — A new report reveals that over half of millennials are now “polyworking,” or holding multiple jobs, as stagnant wages fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
A survey by Academized found that 52% of 2,500 millennials, who are aged 26 to 41, are supplementing their primary income with side hustles.
Side hustles: How many and how much?
Among polyworking millennials, the trend goes far beyond a single side gig. The data shows that 43% juggle two jobs, 24% manage three, and 33% hold four or more income-generating roles.
The average annual income from these side jobs is $12,689, though earnings vary widely. Some in high-demand fields like technology report up to $45,000 per year, while others make as little as $1,200.
The time commitment is substantial: 64% of respondents spend five to 20 hours per week on their side hustles, in addition to their full-time positions.
Motivations include financial stability (31%), pursuing personal interests (24%), career advancement (17%), and improving work-life balance (9%).
Stress, burnout, and the future of polyworking
While the additional income helps alleviate financial stress for 41% of surveyed millennials, polyworking is not without its downsides. About 42% of millennials with multiple jobs experience burnout, and 26% say their side hustles strain personal relationships. However, 31% see no major disadvantages and consider the extra work “worthwhile.”
Technology is playing a key role in making polyworking manageable: 35% of respondents use digital and AI tools to organize their multiple roles.
Despite the challenges, the trend appears set to continue, with 58% of millennials planning to maintain multiple income streams long-term. Still, a third would prefer to return to a single job, citing concerns about sustainability and burnout.
As the workforce evolves, polyworking is becoming a defining feature of millennial careers. The findings suggest employers and policymakers may need to rethink traditional employment models to address the opportunities and risks of this growing trend.
