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Despite the conventional 40-hour workweek, many U.S. workers routinely clock in far beyond that, spending significant portions of their year at work.Â
For those working in industries like oil, gas, healthcare, and public safety, these extended hours are even more common. But which cities, occupations, and industries lead the pack for the longest workweeks? Fullstack Academy analyzed U.S. Census Bureau data to uncover where Americans are working the longest hours.
U.S. Cities With the Longest Workweeks
Texas dominates the cities where workers log the most hours, with Midland and Odessa leading the charge. Midland residents work an average of 47.06 hours per week — an entire 7 hours longer than the typical 40-hour workweek, and Odessa isn’t far behind at 45.98 hours weekly. These cities owe their extended work hours largely to the oil and gas industry, which demands long shifts and physical labor, with many workers putting in 12-hour days.
In third place is Manhattan, Kansas, where workers average 45.02 hours per week, partly influenced by the presence of Kansas State University and Fort Riley, which contribute to a range of demanding job types.
Long Hours in Major U.S. Metros
For larger metro areas, Houston leads with an average of 43.59 hours per week. Much like its neighboring cities, the oil and gas industry plays a significant role, but Houston is also home to Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical complex, where healthcare professionals often work grueling shifts. Dallas follows closely at 43.32 hours per week, driven by the high-demand tech industry.Â
Omaha, Nebraska, rounds out the top three, with 43.32 hours weekly, a byproduct of the hands-on work in agriculture, which often requires seasonal overtime.
Occupations With the Longest Hours
When it comes to job types, surgeons top the list, working an average of 58.61 hours per week. The demands of surgery — long procedures, preparation, and ongoing consultations — contribute to these extended hours, although surgeons are well compensated for their time.Â
Following closely are derrick, rotary drill, and service unit operators at 57.49 hours per week, and firefighters at 54.81 hours. These high-stakes, emergency-response roles often require long shifts, with firefighters regularly working 24-hour shifts.
Industries That Require the Most Time
By industry, animal production and aquaculture lead with an average of 53.51 hours per week. Workers in support activities for mining are not far behind, with 51.72 hours weekly. Military branches, like the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army, also demand long hours, averaging 50.04 and 49.48 hours per week, respectively. Truck transportation follows closely at 49.44 hours per week, as logistics workers ensure products reach their destinations on time.
