AI at work statistics: 8 facts for 2026

19.8%

of U.S. businesses reported using AI

In the survey period ending May 3, 2026, nearly one in five U.S. employer businesses said they used AI in at least one business function.

37%

of firms with 250+ employees reported using AI

Reported use was higher among larger employers, showing that scale still shapes how quickly organizations can put AI into regular operations.

Under 20%

of the smallest firms reported using AI

Among firms with four or fewer employees, fewer than one in five reported AI use between December 2025 and May 2026.

39.7%

of information-sector businesses reported using AI

The information sector had the highest reported use rate in the Census snapshot for the period ending May 3, 2026.

33.9%

of finance and insurance businesses reported using AI

Finance and insurance also sat well above the national rate, according to the same May 2026 Census release.

20% to 23%

of U.S. businesses expected to use AI within six months

Across the December 2025 to May 2026 survey periods, the share expecting to use AI soon ran slightly ahead of reported current use.

1 in 4

workers are in occupations with some GenAI exposure

The International Labour Organization's 2025 global assessment finds exposure is widespread, but says job transformation is the more likely outcome than full replacement for most work.

3.3%

of global employment is in the highest exposure category

The ILO places a small share of employment in its highest exposure group, with clerical occupations remaining the most exposed.