Singapore Youth Unemployment
Youth unemployment (ages 15-24) SL.UEM.1524.ZS
Singapore's youth unemployment was 6.78% in 2025, ranked 40th globally. This represents a 7.1% increase from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1991–2025.
Overview
Singapore's youth unemployment stood at 6.78% in 2025, a rise of +0.45pp from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach 5.70% by 2026. Singapore ranked 40th globally.
Singapore's youth unemployment rate has experienced significant fluctuations over the past 35 years, ranging from a low of 3.87% in 1991 to a peak of 12.49% in 2009. The latest available data from the World Bank shows that the youth unemployment rate in Singapore remains at 6.78%, a figure closely matched by its peer, Macao SAR, China. This current rate is a marked improvement from the peak of 2009, but still higher than the all-time low of 1991. The country's experience is not unique, as many nations have struggled with high youth unemployment rates in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis. The trajectory of Singapore's youth unemployment rate is likely to be influenced by the country's highly skilled and adaptable workforce, as well as its continued investment in education and training programs. For the rate to continue its downward trend, the government may need to focus on supporting entrepreneurship and job creation in emerging industries, such as technology and sustainability.
Data & projection
| Year | Youth Unemployment | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | 4.29% | - | - |
| 2027* trend | 5.00% | - | - |
| 2026* trend | 5.70% | - | - |
| 2025 | 6.78% | +0.45pp | #40 |
| 2024 | 6.33% | −2.19pp | #34 |
| 2023 | 8.52% | +0.59pp | #57 |
| 2022 | 7.92% | −1.58pp | #49 |
| 2021 | 9.50% | −1.06pp | #52 |
| 2020 | 10.56% | +2.93pp | #55 |
| 2019 | 7.63% | −0.81pp | #46 |
| 2018 | 8.44% | −0.90pp | #55 |
| 2017 | 9.34% | +0.61pp | #62 |
| 2016 | 8.72% | −0.17pp | #51 |
| 2015 | 8.89% | +0.52pp | #56 |
| 2014 | 8.38% | −0.53pp | #48 |
| 2013 | 8.90% | +0.37pp | #52 |
| 2012 | 8.53% | −0.34pp | #55 |
| 2011 | 8.87% | −0.55pp | #53 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Singapore matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 2021. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw youth unemployment improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Singapore's youth unemployment was 6.78% in 2025. Ranked 40th globally. This represents a 7.1% increase from the previous year.
Singapore's youth unemployment peaked at 12.49% in 2009.
The lowest youth unemployment in Singapore was 3.87% in 1991.
Singapore ranks 40th globally in youth unemployment as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SL.UEM.1524.ZS. Data sourced from World Bank.
Singapore's youth unemployment is projected to reach 5.70% by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The youth unemployment of Singapore in 2025 was 6.78%. This ranks 40th in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_singapore_youth-unemployment,
title = {Singapore Youth Unemployment},
url = {https://historysaid.com/singapore/youth-unemployment/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}