US labor unions saw membership gains in 2025, mostly in states with bargaining protections

Uptick in US union membership coincides with high public approval ratings of unions

After years of decline, union membership in the US increased by 411,000 members in 2025, the largest increase since 2008, according to a new report.

The report makes clear the impact that right to work" laws can have on union membership: most gains were concentrated in states that protect collective bargaining.