Number of employed people in Ireland 1986-2027

The number of employed people in Ireland amounted to 2.82 million people in 2025. Between 1986 and 2025, the number rose by 1.68 million people, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend. From 2025 to 2027, the number will increase by 90,000 people.

The indicator describes the number of employed people. This refers to persons who during a pre-defined period, either: a) performed wage or salary work, b) held a formal attachment to their job (even if not currently working), (c) performed for-profit work for personal or family gain , (d) were with an enterprise although temporarily not at work for any specific reason.