The latest 2023 Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) data from the US Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reveals a significant decline in literacy and numeracy among young adults aged 16 to 24. Despite rising high school graduation rates, millions of Americans are now functionally illiterate or lack basic numeracy skills necessary for higher education and skilled employment.
A growing number of struggling readers
According to the NCES report, the percentage of adults performing at the lowest literacy level (Level 1 or below) increased from 19 percent in 2017 to 28 percent in 2023. Among young adults aged 16 to 24, the percentage at this level rose from 16 percent to 25 percent. This represents approximately five million individuals, equivalent to the population of Alabama, who struggle with basic reading and comprehension tasks.Average literacy scores declined across all education levels:
- Adults with less than a high school diploma: 238 to 213
- Adults with a high school diploma: 259 to 246
- Adults with more than a high school degree: 294 to 287
Diplomas don’t guarantee reading skills
While the share of young adults holding a high school diploma increased from 50 percent to 55 percent between 2017 and 2023, this group experienced the steepest decline in literacy performance. Adults with more than a high school education also saw a drop in literacy scores from 294 to 287. This indicates that diploma attainment alone does not guarantee functional literacy and that many students may be graduating without the skills needed for professional or academic success.
Falling numbers, fading skills
In addition to literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills among US adults have declined since 2017. NCES reports that while literacy scores are now roughly at the international average, US adults perform below average in numeracy and problem-solving. NCES Commissioner Peggy Carr highlighted a growing “skills gap” and described a shrinking middle of workforce readiness, with a widening divide between the highest and lowest performing adults.
Unequal outcomes across demographics
The report also shows significant disparities in literacy performance across race and nativity:
- Literacy proficiency declined most among Black and Hispanic adults, with 50 percent of Black adults and 45 percent of Hispanic adults at Level 1 or below.
- Among native-born adults, 27 percent scored at the lowest literacy level compared with 52 percent of non-native-born adults.
These disparities indicate persistent challenges for racial minorities and immigrants in accessing quality education and workforce preparation.
Rethinking education and workforce readiness
The NCES data suggests an urgent need for intervention in both K-12 and adult education. Rising graduation rates without accompanying literacy skills can leave young adults unprepared for college or skilled employment. Policymakers, educators, and employers may need to rethink approaches to teaching foundational literacy and numeracy to ensure that students are workforce ready.
Closing the gap is essential
The 2023 PIAAC data confirms a troubling trend in the United States. Despite improvements in high school completion rates, functional literacy and numeracy among young adults are declining. Millions of Americans are now underprepared for the demands of higher education and the modern workforce. Addressing these gaps will be essential for maintaining competitiveness and social mobility in the coming years.
