U.S. Aluminum Industry Hits Record Economic Output

Aluminum  |  2026-06-11 05:58:12   |   By

According to the study, growth in aluminum recycling and downstream manufacturing has helped offset declines in primary aluminum production jobs.

Summary
  • The U.S. aluminum industry supports more than 165,000 direct jobs and generates over $115 billion in economic output, the highest level since tracking began in 2013.
  • Growth in recycling and downstream manufacturing has offset declines in primary aluminum production, with secondary aluminum employment rising over 20% since 2024.
  • More than $11 billion has been invested in U.S. aluminum operations over the past decade, strengthening domestic supply chains and production capacity.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A new economic impact study has highlighted the strength and resilience of the U.S. aluminum industry. The sector directly employs more than 165,000 workers and generates over $115 billion in economic output, which is the highest level recorded since industry tracking began in 2013.

The 2026 Economic Impact of the U.S. Aluminum Industry report, released by John Dunham & Associates, found that overall employment in the aluminum sector has remained largely stable over the past decade despite major shifts in manufacturing activity and global market conditions.

According to the study, growth in aluminum recycling and downstream manufacturing has helped offset declines in primary aluminum production jobs. Between 2024 and 2026, employment in secondary aluminum production has increased by more than 20%. Meanwhile, jobs in the sheet and plate segment rose by 6%.

Over the past ten years, the industry has invested more than $11 billion in U.S. operations. These investments have strengthened domestic supply chains and expanded production capacity, helping the country meet the growing domestic demand for aluminum products.

Charles Johnson, President and CEO of the Aluminum Association, noted that the story of the U.S. aluminum industry over the past decade is one of resilience and reinvention.

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