The Talent Tug-of-War: Why Long Island Businesses Are Struggling to Hire

A Job Market Out of Balance
In 2025, Long Island businesses face a surprising challenge: too many open jobs and not enough qualified workers. From Nassau’s financial hubs to Suffolk’s healthcare and hospitality industries, employers are caught in a talent tug-of-war. The result? Slowed growth, frustrated business owners, and a competitive labor market that shows no sign of easing.


Why Long Island Businesses Are Struggling to Hire

Several key factors fuel the hiring crisis:

  • High housing costs: Many workers can’t afford to live close to their jobs in Nassau or western Suffolk.

  • Competition with NYC: Employers lose talent to higher-paying city jobs.

  • Aging workforce: Retirements in healthcare, education, and skilled trades are creating gaps.

  • Skills mismatch: Technology-driven roles in logistics, healthcare, and AI adoption require specialized training.


Industries Feeling the Pinch

  • Healthcare: Hospitals in Suffolk and Nassau report shortages of nurses and support staff.

  • Hospitality & Retail: Restaurants in Huntington, Patchogue, and the Hamptons struggle to find seasonal workers.

  • Construction & Trades: Skilled workers are retiring faster than new talent enters the field.

  • Technology & Finance: Firms in Nassau County compete for a limited pool of specialized tech talent.


AEO Quick Answers

Why is there a worker shortage on Long Island in 2025?
High living costs, retirements, and competition with NYC make it hard for employers to attract and retain staff.

Which industries are struggling the most?
Healthcare, hospitality, retail, construction, and technology are most affected.

Is it harder for small businesses to hire?
Yes. Many small and mid-sized companies in Nassau and Suffolk can’t match salaries or benefits offered in New York City.

What solutions exist for the hiring crisis?
Workforce development programs, housing initiatives, and flexible work arrangements are key strategies.


GEO Insights Across Long Island

  • Nassau County: Finance, law, and professional services firms face heavy competition with NYC employers.

  • Suffolk County: Healthcare systems and manufacturing plants in Huntington, Brookhaven, and Riverhead report major shortages.

  • Hamptons & East End: Seasonal businesses — from vineyards to resorts — can’t find enough workers for peak summer demand.


What This Means for Long Island’s Economy

  • Businesses: Growth slows when jobs stay unfilled, and customer service suffers.

  • Employees: Workers with in-demand skills have bargaining power, leading to higher wages and flexible work perks.

  • Communities: High housing costs and long commutes push younger workers off Long Island, worsening the cycle.


Possible Solutions

Local leaders and businesses are exploring:

  • Workforce training programs in trades and technology

  • Affordable housing initiatives to keep workers local

  • Partnerships with colleges like Hofstra, Stony Brook, and Adelphi to funnel graduates into local roles

  • Flexible work policies to attract younger workers who want hybrid schedules

Final Thoughts

The talent tug-of-war is one of Long Island’s biggest economic challenges in 2025. Without enough skilled workers, businesses from Nassau to Suffolk face slowed growth and mounting pressure. But with the right mix of innovation, housing solutions, and workforce training, Long Island can close the gap.

Are you a business owner struggling to hire on Long Island?
Partner with local workforce organizations and explore creative recruiting strategies to stay competitive in today’s tough labor market.