"More women in the workforce is better for the economy. Overall, it introduces a different set of skills, introduces potentially a spur of innovation technology," explained, an analyst with Bankrate. "Over the last two decades, the share of prime-age women with a college degree has risen significantly.
Financial necessity, it's hard to run a household with one income. And women just like to have something to do besides raise a family," said Julie Bauke, founder and chief career Strategist for The Bauke Group. Bauke noted the numbers represent both full-time and part-time work. Some women are only able to work part-time because of the high costs of childcare.
"People are having to rely on neighbors, daycare co-ops, other family members, their spouse, their partner, and they're having to patch together childcare. And that's kind of scary," Bauke continued."Employers are starting to realize that if we don't cater to women and give women what they need, they won't come or they won't come and stay," she explained. "You immediately limit your talent pool.
As more women are working, men's labor force participation is declining. The latest government data shows 86.1% of men ages 25-54 are working. According to, men in the workforce have declined from a high of 98% in September 1954. Experts said both physical and mental health issues play a role in the decrease.