Generation Z drives high job turnover in Costa Rica and Mexico

A PwC Interamericas study of Costa Rican firms shows that the Generation Z cohort (born 1997‑2012) accounts for 54 % of employee turnover, far above the 39 % rate for those over 30. Frequent moves are driven by better pay, career purpose and work‑life balance, while companies report salary adjustments for 86 % of respondents and rising costs of recruiting and training.

Separately, a PapersOwl survey of Mexican workers found that 95 % of Generation Z employees admit to evading tasks during the workday, with common practices such as leaving early (34 %) and calling in sick falsely (27 %). Respondents cite inflexible, time‑focused workplaces as the main grievance and call for higher wages, a positive environment and greater flexibility.

Both reports highlight a shift in expectations among young workers, prompting employers in the region to reconsider compensation, flexibility, and engagement strategies to retain talent.