Top 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in the U.S. for 2026

LinkedIn released its 2026 Jobs on the Rise list, identifying the 25 fastest-growing positions in the US. This comprehensive report serves as an annual forecast for the labor market, tracking which roles are expanding most rapidly based on hiring data. The list is a critical resource for understanding where the economy is heading and which skills are in highest demand.

Several standouts are in AI and self-employed careers. The prominence of these categories indicates a major shift in the types of expertise employers are seeking. The report covers a wide range of industries, but technology and independent work arrangements appear to be driving much of the growth observed in the data.

The identification of these 25 positions offers a snapshot of the current hiring climate. It highlights the specific job titles that are seeing the most significant upward momentum, providing clarity for those navigating career changes or educational pursuits.

The data reveals two dominant themes in the fastest-growing jobs: Artificial Intelligence and self-employment. The inclusion of AI-related roles underscores the technology's pervasive impact across various sectors. As companies continue to integrate advanced automation and machine learning, the demand for professionals capable of developing and managing these systems has surged.

Simultaneously, the rise of self-employed careers points to a growing trend toward freelance and contract-based work. This shift suggests a changing dynamic in how work is structured, with more professionals opting for independent arrangements over traditional employment. The report identifies these as standout categories within the broader list of 25 positions.

These trends are not isolated incidents but rather indicators of a larger transformation in the workforce. The convergence of technological advancement and changing work preferences is reshaping the professional landscape in the United States.

• Roles centered on AI development and implementation
• Positions requiring specialized technical expertise
• Independent and freelance career opportunities

While the specific locations for each of the 25 jobs are detailed in the full report, the overall trend indicates widespread hiring across the United States. The 2026 Jobs on the Rise list reflects national data, showing that these growth areas are not confined to a single region but are part of a broader economic movement.

LinkedIn's analysis provides insights into where these positions are being filled most aggressively. The geographic distribution of hiring often correlates with tech hubs and metropolitan areas, but the expansion of remote work has likely broadened the availability of these roles beyond traditional city centers.

Understanding where the hiring momentum is strongest can help job seekers target their search effectively. The report serves as a guide to the areas of the country where these fastest-growing jobs are most in demand.

The 2026 Jobs on the Rise list offers a clear vision of the future workforce. The dominance of AI and self-employed roles suggests that adaptability and specialized skills will be crucial for career longevity. Professionals may need to focus on continuous learning to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology.

For employers, the report highlights the competitive landscape for talent. Companies looking to hire for these fast-growing positions will need to offer compelling opportunities to attract candidates with in-demand skills. The data serves as a strategic tool for workforce planning and talent acquisition.

Ultimately, the report from LinkedIn paints a picture of a dynamic and evolving job market. The identification of these 25 positions provides valuable guidance for anyone looking to understand or participate in the future of work in the United States.