According to Branch’s report, almost half of hourly workers now prioritise scheduling flexibility over traditional benefits like paid time off and health insurance. The survey showed that 46% rank flexible hours as their key benefit, compared to 44% for paid time off and 34% for health insurance. In fact, 43% of respondents cited flexibility as the primary reason they pursue hourly work.
This demand comes from the challenges of balancing jobs with other commitments, such as caregiving or education, which affect about one-third of hourly workers. In addition, 57% of workers identified work-life balance as a key factor in staying with their employers, while 29% expressed willingness to switch to roles providing work-from-home options.
“Flexibility is no longer a perk — it’s a necessity,” Branch Founder and CEO Atif Siddiqi said in the release. “Whether it’s controlling when and how they work or accessing their earnings in real-time, today’s workers are looking for solutions that allow them to better align their jobs with their lives. Employers who embrace this mindset will be better equipped to attract and retain talent in an increasingly competitive labor market.”
Moreover, the report emphasizes the growing financial strain among hourly employees, amplifying the need for flexible payment options. Four out of five workers experience inconsistent weekly pay, and only 20% have $500 or more in emergency savings. These challenges have forced 59% to delay medical procedures. Also, nearly 88% of respondents agreed that early access to earned wages would help them manage expenses.
The holiday season highlights these financial pressures, as holiday tips make up more than 20% of annual income for 15% of hourly workers, with 66% planning to take extra seasonal shifts. While 46% will direct holiday earnings toward essentials like rent and groceries, 12% plan to use tips for gifts.
Hourly employees are now focusing on long-term financial goals. Improving credit scores (56%) and building emergency funds (52%) top their 2025 priorities, followed by paying off debt and saving for major purchases like cars (30%) or homes (22%).