Unlimited PTO Research Summary: 2026 Update. The concept of Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) has gained significant traction in recent years, providing employees with the flexibility to take time off as needed. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional PTO policies that limit vacation days. Our updated research provides the most current statistics on unlimited PTO, highlighting its growing popularity and implications in the modern workforce:
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Jobs offering unlimited PTO surged by 178% from 2015 to 2019, and the trend continued with an additional increase of 40% from 2019 to 2023.
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On average, employees utilizing unlimited PTO take 13 days off annually.
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As of 2026, 10% of workers have access to unlimited PTO.
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Only 8% of companies currently offer unlimited PTO.
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72% of employees express a desire for unlimited PTO options.
For a deeper dive into the statistics, explore our detailed analysis here: Unlimited vs. Traditional | Demographics | Employees With Unlimited PTO
Unlimited PTO vs. Traditional PTO
The preference for unlimited PTO continues to rise, yet what differentiates unlimited PTO from traditional PTO? We have compiled key facts that illustrate the contrasts:
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Employees take an average of 2 days less off with unlimited PTO.
Despite the assumption that unlimited PTO encourages more time off, the opposite is often true. Employees with unlimited PTO typically take 13 days off, compared to 15 days under traditional policies.
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62% of employees with unlimited PTO report achieving a healthy work-life balance.
In contrast, only 53% of employees with traditional PTO feel the same way. This suggests that even with fewer days off, the flexibility of unlimited PTO contributes positively to perceived work-life balance.
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US employees are owed up to $318 billion in unused PTO days.
Companies are liable to compensate employees for unused PTO, making unlimited PTO a potential financial advantage for employers by reducing these liabilities.
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50% of employees would prefer unlimited PTO over a higher salary.
This underscores the value employees place on work-life balance, presenting an opportunity for companies to enhance employee satisfaction while managing costs.
Unlimited PTO Demographics
Unlimited PTO is more prevalent in certain industries and demographics. Younger generations and those in technology sectors show a heightened preference. Here are the significant demographic insights:
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74% of Gen Z desire unlimited PTO.
In contrast, only 45% of Baby Boomers express a similar desire, indicating a generational shift towards valuing flexibility in work arrangements.
Desire for Unlimited PTO by Generation
Generation Share of People Who Want Unlimited PTO Gen Z 74% Millennials 70% Gen X 68% Baby Boomers 45% -
20% of tech, media, and finance companies offer unlimited PTO.
This contrasts sharply with only 4% of all US companies, indicating that unlimited PTO is five times more common in these sectors. Major firms like Microsoft, Netflix, and Zoom are leading the way in adopting this policy.
Employees with Unlimited PTO
While many employees express interest in unlimited PTO, how do those who actually have it feel? Here’s what our research indicates about their experiences:
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72% of employees with unlimited PTO rank it as their top benefit.
This preference places unlimited PTO above other perks such as wellness initiatives, retirement plans, and paid sabbaticals.
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37% of employees with unlimited PTO continue to work during their vacations.
This suggests that the flexibility of unlimited PTO may not always translate into complete disconnection from work.
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42% of employees with unlimited PTO check work emails during vacations.
This highlights the ongoing challenge of work-life separation in a remote work environment.
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82% of employees with unlimited PTO feel positively about the policy.
Despite often working during their time off, many appreciate the freedom and flexibility that unlimited PTO provides.
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43.7% of employees with unlimited PTO feel they don’t take enough vacation time.
This sentiment may stem from unclear expectations regarding PTO usage, indicating a need for better communication from employers.
Unlimited PTO FAQ
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What are the major reasons behind workplace conflict?
Unlimited PTO effectively boosts employee morale and can save companies money. With 82% of employees satisfied with this policy, and taking fewer PTO days, employers can significantly reduce costs associated with unused PTO.
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What percentage of companies offer unlimited PTO?
Currently, only 8% of companies globally and 4% of US companies provide unlimited PTO. Around 10% of employees worldwide have access to it, illustrating its rarity despite growing interest.
However, certain industries show higher adoption rates; for example, 20% of tech, media, and finance companies offer unlimited PTO.
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What is the average amount of PTO taken by employees with unlimited PTO?
The average PTO taken by employees with unlimited PTO is 13 days. This is 2 days less than the 15 days taken under traditional PTO policies, equating to a 15% reduction in annual days off.
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Who benefits from unlimited PTO?
Both employees and companies stand to gain from unlimited PTO. Employees enjoy the flexibility of taking time off as needed, while employers save on costs associated with unused PTO. However, clear communication regarding expectations is crucial to prevent employees from feeling pressured to work during their time off.
Conclusion
Unlimited PTO remains a compelling policy, with 72% of employees expressing a desire for it. Notably, 74% of Gen Z and 70% of Millennials are particularly interested in this benefit.
Despite this demand, only 8% of global companies and 4% of US companies currently offer unlimited PTO. As of 2026, only 10% of employees have access to it, even though 50% would prefer it over a salary increase.
As organizations recognize the financial advantages of unlimited PTO, the future of this policy may hinge on companies’ willingness to adapt to employee preferences and enhance overall job satisfaction.
References
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BioSpace – Too Much of a Good Thing: The Truth About Unlimited PTO
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HRdirect – Carefully Weigh the Pros and Cons of an Unlimited PTO Policy
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CBS News – Unlimited vacation can save companies billions. But is it a bad deal for workers?
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HR Executive – Unlimited PTO: A better deal for employers than workers?
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Forbes Advisor – Average PTO In The US & Other PTO Statistics (2023)
Author
Jack Flynn is a writer for Zippia. In his professional career he’s written over 100 research papers, articles and blog posts. Some of his most popular published works include his writing about economic terms and research into job classifications. Jack received his BS from Hampshire College.
