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🎯 Life Milestones

When did most people get their first job?

Compare when you started working to national averages.

years old

Any paid work — part-time, summer job, etc.

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Did I move out early or late?

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Am I behind on buying a home?

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Did I get married early or late?

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When do people get their first job?

The average age of first employment varies widely. In the US, the average first job age is about 16, though teen employment has dropped significantly — only 30% of 16-19 year olds work today vs 50% in 2000.

First job age by country

  • Australia: 14.7 (strong teen work culture)
  • United States: 16.0
  • United Kingdom: 16.5
  • Germany: 17.5 (Ausbildung system)
  • Japan: 18+ (work during college is common)

Trends in youth employment

  • Gen Z starts work later but values work-life balance more
  • Gig economy (Uber, freelancing) counts — many teens start there
  • Those who work during school earn 15% more in their 30s (long-term studies)
  • Unpaid internships are still common (and controversial)

Sources: BLS Current Population Survey, OECD youth employment data, Eurostat.