More than half of US workers surveyed by ResumeTemplates.com, 56%, intend to pursue new job opportunities in 2025, and 27% have already engaged in a job search.

The survey found one in three respondents would leave their current role without securing another offer. Twenty-one percent said they were not very likely to quit without another offer in hand, and 17% said they were not likely to quit at all.

Low pay was cited by 40% of workers as the top reason for leaving their current job.

“With inflation and minimal cost-of-living increases or raises, I’m not surprised many people feel undercompensated,” ResumeTemplates Chief Career Strategist Julia Toothacre said in a press release. “Companies tend to prioritize profits over employee well-being.”

Confidence remains high among job seekers, with eight in 10 workers optimistic about finding a better position.

The survey also found that 21% of respondents are considering a change in industry, with an interest in healthcare, finance and technology.

Workers in retail, government and service positions are the most likely to consider industry shifts.

Top priorities for job seekers when considering a position include:

• Work-life balance, 99%
• Job security, 98%
• Interest in the work, 97%
• Higher salary, 95%
• Better benefits, 93%
• Company culture, 92%
• Flexible hours, 90%
• Opportunities for career growth, 89%
• Remote work options, 67%

Concerns about AI and the upcoming presidential election also factor into job searches, with 30% of job seekers wary of AI’s impact on hiring practices and 35% concerned about the 2024 election’s influence on job prospects.

The survey includes responses from 1,258 US full-time workers. It was conducted on Oct. 16.