50- 90%
of Autistic adults are unemployed, according to a range of studies.*
15%
of Autistic adults in the United States with college degrees are fully employed, suggesting that higher education does not guarantee employment.**
2 YEARS
is the average length of employment for Autistic adults, compared to 4.5 years for people without disabilities.
Behind every number is a person
Finding meaningful work is tough for anyone, but for Autistic adult employment, the challenge is urgent. Around 80% of Autistic adults have never had a paying job since high school, and even those with college degrees face huge barriers—only 15% are employed. Most opportunities are limited to manufacturing, food service, retail, healthcare, and a handful of other fields. The disability employment gap is real, and most end up in part-time roles, earning less than their peers.
Workplace accommodations and supported employment are often missing, making job retention for Autistic adults even harder.
Traditional interviews and workplace norms rarely fit neurodiversity in the workplace, especially now with virtual hiring and remote work.
Employment barriers for Autistic adults persist, but when employers embrace inclusive hiring practices and recognize strengths, Autistic adults can thrive and provide enormous value. Meaningful employment for Autistic adults isn’t just about jobs—it’s about dignity, purpose, and opportunity.
You can make a difference
The numbers don't lie. The urgency is real, and together, we can make a difference.
Join us in finding and educating employers. Let’s turn these numbers around—one job, one person, one purpose at a time.