Job Search and the Weather: Evidence From Time Use Data

Abstract

The influence that the weather may exert on the intensity of job search by the unemployed is theoretically ambiguous as it involves opposing potential linkages. However, it is important to measure it, as the intensity of job search is a fundamental determinant of the chances and speed of reemployment. I use individual-level time-use data for the period 2003–2017 combined with daily weather observations for U.S. counties to evaluate this influence. Results suggest that the supply of time in finding jobs by the unemployed who are not eligible for unemployment insurance (UI) is reduced (increased) as same-day maximum (minimum) temperature ascends, but also that these variations are made up on subsequent days. The weather does not interfere with the job search behavior of the unemployed eligible for UI. These conclusions hold in different times of year and historical climates, so as to weather-induced variations in job search time are concerned, the chances and speed of reemployment are probably constant during the year and across climates.