Dec 16, 2025 - Business
California ranks high on union list
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California is among the 10 states with the largest share of unionized workers, but the state's numbers are slipping, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Why it matters: Americans' support of labor unions has surged over the last decade, signaling a shift in workers' expectations and putting more pressure on employers to deliver better pay, benefits and working conditions.
By the numbers: With 14.5% of workers in unions last year, California ranks ninth in the country, tied with Rhode Island.
- Hawaii has the biggest share, at 26.5%.
- Nationally, 9.9% of workers were union members in 2024, compared with 13.4% in 2000.
Yes, but: The numbers are dipping. From 2000 to 2024, the California share decreased to 14.5%, from 15.5%.
- The peak came in 2008, when 18.4% of workers in the state were in a union.