Why Right to Work States Outperform: Examining Employment Growth and Economic Benefits
Why Right to Work States Outperform: Examining Employment Growth and Economic Benefits
When evaluating economic prosperity and job creation in America, one division is especially important: the distinction between Right to Work states and Forced Unionism states. Recent findings from the National Institute for Labor Relations Research (NILRR) provide compelling evidence that Right to Work policies have significantly benefited both workers and broader state economies over the past decade.
The Employment Growth Gap: A 121.62% Advantage
According to NILRR’s 2025 fact sheet, between 2014 and 2024, Right to Work states experienced a percentage growth in the number of people employed of 16.4%. By comparison, states with forced unionism laws saw only a 7.4% increase over the same period. This means that Right to Work states’ growth per capita was a staggering 121.62% greater than that of Forced Unionism states.
Such a gap isn’t just a statistical quirk—it’s a clear indicator of how labor policy can shape economic opportunity. Right to Work laws, by giving employees the freedom to choose whether or not to join a union, appear to create an environment that attracts business investment and encourages job creation.
Understanding the Economic Statistic: Employment Growth Rate
The employment growth rate, as defined by the Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Household Survey, tracks the relative change in total employment over a set period. Positive growth signals robust job creation and economic expansion, while negative values warn of job loss and potential recession. With Right to Work states consistently showing higher employment growth rates, it’s clear that these policies are correlated with economic resilience and vitality.
The Bottom Line: Workers and Families Benefit More
The practical impact of Right to Work is straightforward but powerful: more jobs, more opportunities, stronger economies. With a significantly higher rate of employment growth, individuals in Right to Work states are far more likely to find work, advance their careers, and provide for their families. This advantage isn’t just theoretical—it’s played out in real job numbers across the country over the last decade.
Conclusion
In the ongoing debate over labor laws and economic policy, the data from NILRR’s fact sheet make a persuasive case. Right to Work states aren’t just seeing higher employment growth—they’re providing expanded opportunities and economic benefits for their residents. For individuals and policymakers alike, these numbers underscore the value of workplace freedom and its long-term benefits to workers and communities alike.
The evidence is clear: Right to Work states have outpaced their counterparts, offering a blueprint for sustainable economic growth and prosperity for everyone.