AI Has Not Caused Widespread Job Losses, Survey Finds

A survey of 1,250 U.S. workers conducted between July 30 and August 4, 2026, reveals that artificial intelligence tools have not yet led to substantial job losses or gains, contrary to some predictions. The research, commissioned by a sociologist studying AI's impact, found that only approximately 3% of surveyed workers reported losing a job due to AI since 2023. This figure is notably lower than what some AI pessimists might have anticipated. Furthermore, the study indicated that AI-related job changes remain uncommon among the workforce. Roughly 6% of respondents stated they secured a job that did not exist prior to the advent of AI, suggesting a modest creation of new roles. Another 9% of workers indicated they received a promotion or advancement that was directly linked to AI technologies. These findings are part of an ongoing study and have not yet undergone peer review. The survey aimed to gather data on current AI usage, perceptions of future job opportunities, and the perceived impact of AI on past job prospects. The sample of employed U.S. adults was designed to be representative of the national employed population across various demographics, including age, gender, race, and education levels. The survey consisted of 25 questions. The limited impact observed four years after the public debut of ChatGPT in November 2022 suggests that the widespread job displacement or creation often discussed in public discourse has not yet materialized for the majority of the U.S. workforce. The data collected provides a snapshot of the current labor market's interaction with AI, offering a counterpoint to more extreme forecasts from both AI optimists and pessimists. The sociologist's research intends to provide empirical evidence to better understand the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and employment. The survey's methodology, utilizing an established market research agency, aims to ensure the reliability of the collected data, although the findings are preliminary and subject to further analysis and academic scrutiny. The implications of these findings are significant for policymakers, businesses, and individuals navigating the increasing integration of AI into various industries and daily work practices. The study's focus on direct job loss and creation, as well as AI-related career advancements, offers a nuanced perspective on AI's immediate economic effects on workers.