As February 2026 begins, January proved to be one of the toughest months for American workers in recent memory. Major US companies announced massive layoffs, with estimates exceeding 60,000+ positions eliminated nationwide. Driven by aggressive cost-cutting, AI and automation adoption, post-pandemic restructuring, and efficiency pushes, these cuts span tech, logistics, manufacturing, retail, and more.

Trackers like Layoffs.fyi report 59+ tech layoffs impacting over 26,000 people in early 2026 alone, while broader WARN notices from 100+ employers signal widespread pain. Companies cite the need to “flatten hierarchies,” invest heavily in AI, and reverse pandemic-era over-hiring.

This in-depth, SEO-optimized report from ClickUSANews.com provides a state-focused, company-by-company overview of the biggest January 2026 US layoffs, reasons, and what it means for American workers and the economy.

Key US Layoff Statistics – January 2026

• Total estimated cuts announced: 60,000–65,000+ (many phased over 2026)
• Primary drivers: AI/automation (e.g., Dow, Nike), efficiency/restructuring (Amazon), partnership shifts (UPS), and economic caution
• Hardest-hit sectors: Tech/corporate roles, logistics, manufacturing, retail distribution
• Broader context: Over 100 companies filed WARN notices for January/early 2026 cuts, affecting states from California and Washington (tech hubs) to Tennessee, Mississippi (distribution), and nationwide HQ roles

Major US Companies and Layoff Details (January 2026 Announcements)

• AmazonCuts: ~16,000 corporate roles (global, majority US-based) Details: Second major round since October 2025 (total ~30,000 targeted). Focus on reducing bureaucracy, boosting AI efficiency, and cultural reset under CEO Andy Jassy. Impacts AWS, retail ops, HR, and tech teams in Seattle, California, Virginia, and other hubs. Why it matters: Amazon employs hundreds of thousands in the US; cuts hit white-collar workers hardest.
• UPS (United Parcel Service)Cuts: Up to 30,000 operational jobs planned for 2026 (many starting early year) Details: Tied to ending heavy Amazon delivery partnership, automation, and attrition/buyouts. Affects warehouses and drivers across states like Georgia, Illinois, Texas, California, and Midwest hubs. Why it matters: One of the largest private employers in America; hits blue-collar logistics workers.
• Dow Inc.Cuts: 4,500 jobs (~13% of workforce) Details: Part of “Transform to Outperform” plan emphasizing AI, automation, and $2B+ profitability boost. Impacts corporate, R&D, and manufacturing roles, primarily in Michigan, Texas, Louisiana, and other chemical hubs. Why it matters: Shows AI-driven cuts spreading beyond tech into traditional manufacturing.
• NikeCuts: 775 positions Details: Acceleration of automation at US distribution centers in Tennessee (Memphis area) and Mississippi. Third straight year of cuts as supply chain modernizes. Why it matters: Affects warehouse and logistics workers in the South.
• PinterestCuts: ~15% of workforce (hundreds of roles) Details: Pivot to AI-powered products and strategy shift. Primarily affects San Francisco HQ and tech teams in California. Why it matters: Highlights ongoing tech restructuring.
• MetaCuts: Over 1,000 in Reality Labs division Details: Shift away from metaverse/VR toward AI priorities. Impacts California (Menlo Park) and other US offices. Why it matters: Continues Big Tech’s efficiency drive.
• Home DepotCuts: ~800 positions Details: Mostly at Atlanta HQ/support center, focused on technology organization amid RTO mandates. Why it matters: Retail giant trimming corporate overhead.
• Other Notable US Cuts
  • Angi (formerly Angie’s List): ~350 jobs for cost optimization
  • Citigroup: Ongoing reductions (part of 10%+ workforce goal)
  • Broader WARN filings: Include FedEx, General Motors, Verizon, Wells Fargo, Macy’s (1,000+ in CT facilities), and dozens more in manufacturing, finance, retail, and healthcare across states like CA, TX, NY, FL, GA, IL, PA, and OH.

State-by-State Impact Highlights

• California: Heavy tech hits (Amazon, Pinterest, Meta in Bay Area; statewide WARN notices)
• Washington: Amazon HQ core impact (Seattle)
• Georgia/Illinois/Texas: UPS warehouse and logistics reductions
• Tennessee/Mississippi: Nike distribution centers
• Michigan/Texas/Louisiana: Dow chemical/manufacturing
• Nationwide: Corporate roles from Amazon, Home Depot (Atlanta), Citi, etc.

Trends and Outlook for American Workers in 2026

January’s brutal start signals continued restructuring. AI is cited frequently as a productivity booster reducing need for certain roles, though economists note it’s often paired with broader cost pressures.

For workers:

• Upskill in AI, automation, and high-demand fields
• Negotiate severance/outplacement support
• Network aggressively—job market toughening with longer unemployment spells
• Monitor WARN notices and trackers for upcoming cuts

ClickUSANews.com will keep tracking US layoffs, economic impacts, and recovery tips. February announcements could add more pressure—stay informed.

For more USA news check:

https://clickusanews.com/news/
Latest USA breaking news, national headlines, global affairs, and trending stories.

https://clickusanews.com/sports/
USA sports news, live scores, match highlights, athlete updates, and major sporting events.

https://clickusanews.com/technology/
Technology news covering AI, gadgets, innovation, cybersecurity, and digital trends in the USA.

https://clickusanews.com/entertainment-movies-ott/
Entertainment updates including movies, OTT releases, celebrity news, and pop culture stories.

https://clickusanews.com/business/
Business and finance news with USA market updates, corporate stories, crypto, and economic insights.

Sources: Reuters, Fast Company, Business Insider, CNBC, WARNTracker.com, Layoffs.fyi, TrueUp, AP, and company filings as of early February 2026.