All statistics and trends referenced in this article are based on findings from the 2025 Aquatic Trends Report published by Recreation Management (https://recmanagement.com/articles/154935/aquatic-trends-report-2025).
Across the United States, aquatics directors, camp leaders, and club managers are asking the same question: Where are all the lifeguards?
The 2025 seasonal hiring cycle continues to reflect the lingering effects of staffing shortages that began during the pandemic. While the situation has improved, challenges remain. According to the 2025 Aquatic Trends Report, 41.8% of aquatic facility managers reported experiencing lifeguard staffing shortages in 2024. That figure is down from 53.3% in 2023 and 67.3% in 2022, indicating some recovery—but not resolution.
What’s Driving Lifeguard Staffing Issues in 2025?
Several factors contribute to persistent shortages:
A shrinking pool of teen and college-age workers
- Competition from higher-paying seasonal jobs
- Limited awareness of lifeguard job benefits among first-time workers
- Certification costs or logistical barriers to completing training
The problem is more pronounced at certain facility types. Respondents from YMCAs (68.3%) and colleges (56.8%) were most likely to report difficulty staffing lifeguards, followed by rec centers (47.8%), parks (39.4%), and schools (38.5%).
Facility Responses to the Lifeguard Shortage
Aquatic employers are evolving their strategies to stay competitive:
- 68% have raised pay rates
- 59.7% now offer flexible hours
- 39.8% provide free facility use for staff
Some are offering bonuses, referral incentives, and even free meals
One facility even built an automated recruitment pipeline using email and text messaging, tripling candidate engagement.
Looking Ahead: Despite improvements since 2022, the lifeguard shortage continues to impact operational hours and season length. 30.8% of respondents said they reduced hours due to staffing challenges, while 13.4% shortened their seasons. A proactive, benefits-forward approach will be critical to staffing success in 2025.