If 2023 was the year of AI hype, 2024 is when it became a practical tool for businesses and individuals.
Whether you’ve used ChatGPT to write haikus about your dog or seen it contribute malaria vaccine research, you’ve probably been amazed by its power. At the same time, it’s hard not to wonder: could AI replace my job? Or, if you’re a true convert, when will AI replace my job?
Chances are, you’ve turned to Google, searching “what jobs will AI replace” to get some clarity.
We’re not here to predict the future of your career. What we can do is use Google Search Trends to uncover what jobs people are most concerned about losing to AI.
It’s a way to see what’s on everyone’s minds and what roles feel most at risk from automation.
A quick note on the methodology
We analyzed search trend data for 60 jobs using variations of the keyword "Will AI replace [job]." We used Google’s keyword planner tool.
Each job was paired with its average monthly search volume, giving us a sense of public interest—or concern—about AI's impact on that profession.
We ranked the jobs by search volume to highlight which roles people are most worried about AI taking over. We also looked at trends like three-month or year-over-year changes.
What jobs are people most concerned about AI replacing
AI is reshaping work, and some jobs feel more at risk than others. Here’s what search trends reveal about public concern.
1. Programmers, arguably the profession closest to AI, lead the list. There are 1,900 monthly searches for “Will AI replace programmers?” as tools like Cursor threaten to automate coding.
2. Accountants and lawyers follow with 590 searches each, with AI encroaching on tasks like financial analysis and contract drafting.
3. Artists are next up with 480 searches, reflecting fears about AI-generated creativity from tools like DALL·E.
4. Even doctors appear on the list (480 searches), as AI’s role in diagnostics sparks curiosity about its potential impact. (This may also reflect public curiosity about AI’s role in healthcare advancements.)
The results show a pattern. Roles requiring specialized skills (technical, professional, or creative) attract the most concern, suggesting that people associate AI with the replacement of jobs involving high levels of expertise or repetitive tasks.
Where are searches growing?
Here’s a quick rundown of the top five roles seeing the biggest jump in year-over-year search interest—it’s a glimpse into how the future of work might be changing
Electricians (+80%)
AI-powered diagnostic tools and the rise of smart home systems are sparking interest in how AI can assist electricians.
Although concern from electricians appears to be growing, experts note that AI will not replace jobs that require dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and flexibility.
Therapists (+55%)
AI chatbots and mental health apps like Woebot are generating buzz. They’re great for basic support, but human empathy remains irreplaceable, driving curiosity about how these tools supplement therapy.
Accountants (+30%)
AI tools like QuickBooks are automating repetitive tasks, from bookkeeping to tax preparation. Searches suggest a mix of interest and concern about how AI is transforming, not eliminating, the role.
Financial Analysts (+29%)
Predictive analytics and AI-driven risk assessment are revolutionizing finance. Analysts are exploring how to leverage AI to enhance, not replace, their insights.
Pharmacists (+27%)
AI in drug recommendations and inventory management is gaining traction. While automation improves efficiency, human judgment in patient care ensures pharmacists remain essential.
What jobs are people least concerned about AI replacing
With only ten searches per month, it's a fair assumption that people believe AI will not replace these roles anytime soon.
1. Farmers make the list, likely because their work relies heavily on physical labor, adaptability to changing conditions, and decision-making based on real-world experience—areas where AI remains limited.
2. Entrepreneurs reflect a role defined by creativity, innovation, and personal risk-taking, qualities that are uniquely human and unlikely to be automated.
3. Mechanics focus on practical problem-solving and manual dexterity, making their hands-on expertise difficult for AI to replicate effectively.
4. Data entry jobs, while routine, draw little concern as automation in this field has already been implemented extensively, leaving little disruption for AI to add.
5. Security guards require human judgment, situational awareness, and physical presence, making them a role that AI can assist but not replace entirely.
Where are searches declining?
Here’s a quick rundown of the top five roles seeing the biggest jump in year-over-year search interest—it’s a glimpse into how the future of work might be changing
Writers (-46%)
Take writers, for example. Searches about AI replacing them have dropped by 46%, likely because tools like ChatGPT and Jasper.ai are now part of the workflow. Instead of replacing writers, AI is helping brainstorm ideas or polish drafts.
The idea that AI can churn out a novel or craft a Pulitzer-winning piece? People are realizing it’s more hype than reality—for now, anyway.
Salespeople (-29%)
Then there’s salespeople, where searches fell by 29%. Why? Selling isn’t just about pitching a product; it’s about trust, relationships, and those unspoken cues a human can read but a bot can’t.
Sure, AI can automate CRM updates or analyze leads, but it can’t replace the handshake (real or virtual) that seals the deal. People seem to recognize that, and the panic is fading.
Real Estate Agents (-21%)
Real estate agents are another interesting case, down 21% in searches. The reason? AI tools have already made their mark, automating pricing models and virtual home tours. But when it comes to negotiating a deal or helping someone find their dream home, the human touch is still irreplaceable. AI helps agents work smarter, not less.
Musicians (-21%)
What about musicians? Searches here also fell by 21%. AI can compose music—it’s true—but creating something truly memorable, something that stirs emotion, still feels uniquely human.
AI-generated tunes are great for background noise, but when it comes to artistry, people know there’s no substitute for a human touch.
Graphic designers (-18%)
Graphic designers saw an 18% decline. The rise of tools like Canva and Adobe Firefly has shifted the focus. Instead of replacing designers, these tools are making it easier to execute ideas, leaving the real creative work—like branding and storytelling—to the experts. It’s clear people see AI as a helping hand rather than a replacement.
AI isn’t replacing jobs, it's changing them
So, what does all this mean?
The drop in searches for these roles suggests a mindset shift. People are starting to see AI not as a job killer but as a tool—one that automates repetitive tasks and supercharges creativity, without removing the need for human skill.
It’s less “AI is coming for my job” and more “AI is helping me do my job better.” And for these roles, that’s a good thing. The human touch? Still priceless.
The narrative around AI often focuses on what it might take away, but the reality is more nuanced.
Take writers, for example. While search trends show some concern about AI encroaching on creative fields, tools like ChatGPT and Jasper are helping professionals brainstorm ideas, draft initial content, and refine their work more efficiently.
Similarly, programmers are using AI-assisted tools like GitHub Copilot to speed up coding, debug more effectively, and focus on solving complex problems rather than repetitive tasks.
Even in fields like therapy, AI is being used to augment human capabilities. Tools powered by AI can analyze patterns in patient data, suggest treatment adjustments, and streamline.
What new jobs will be created by AI?
Here’s a quick look at some of the fastest-growing AI job titles according to what people are searching.
From financial analysts to AI trainers, these roles are taking off as businesses find more ways to integrate AI into what they do.
AI ethicist and AI ethics researcher
Roles like AI ethicist and AI ethics researcher are seeing a surge in interest, reflecting the growing need for responsible AI deployment.
As AI tools become deeply integrated into our lives, companies are prioritizing ethical considerations, such as bias mitigation, privacy protection, and societal impact. These roles ensure AI systems are designed with fairness and accountability, a necessity as public scrutiny intensifies.
AI Consultant and AI Product Manager
High-growth roles like AI consultant and AI product manager showcase how AI expertise is increasingly essential at the strategic level.
AI consultants guide businesses on implementing AI solutions tailored to their needs, while product managers oversee the development of AI-driven products.
Both roles require a blend of technical knowledge and business acumen, making them pivotal in translating AI capabilities into practical, revenue-generating tools.
AI Financial Analyst
Financial services are rapidly adopting AI to streamline operations and improve decision-making. The AI financial analyst role has grown significantly as institutions leverage machine learning to predict market trends, assess risks, and identify investment opportunities.
This hybrid role combines traditional financial expertise with AI-driven insights, offering a competitive edge in a data-driven market.
AI Data Engineer and AI Trainer
Behind every AI model is a massive infrastructure of data and training processes, fueling demand for AI data engineers and AI trainers. Data engineers ensure the seamless flow of information into AI systems, while trainers curate and label data to help machines learn effectively.
These roles are critical in maintaining the accuracy and relevance of AI applications across industries, from healthcare to e-commerce.
Chief AI Officer
As AI becomes a cornerstone of business strategy, leadership roles like Chief AI Officer are emerging. This executive position reflects the growing recognition of AI as a key driver of innovation and competitive advantage.
Chief AI Officers oversee AI initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals while navigating ethical and operational challenges.
Machine Learning Researchers and Deep Learning Engineers
Core technical roles like machine learning researchers and deep learning engineers continue to thrive, driving the development of cutting-edge AI technologies.
These roles focus on advancing the algorithms that power applications such as natural language processing, computer vision, and autonomous systems, ensuring AI’s ongoing evolution.
AI Strategy Consultant
As businesses grapple with the complexities of AI adoption, the role of an AI strategy consultant has become indispensable. These professionals bridge the gap between technical teams and executive leadership, crafting long-term plans to integrate AI effectively into operations while considering costs, risks, and scalability.
How will AI affect jobs in the future?
AI is reshaping how we think about work, transforming challenges into opportunities. Repetitive tasks like data entry are increasingly automated, freeing workers to focus on more creative or interpersonal activities.
Empathy-driven roles, such as therapists or teachers, are less at risk and stand to benefit from AI tools that enhance human connections.
At the same time, entirely new careers are emerging—AI ethicists, machine learning specialists, and AI trainers are becoming vital to industries embracing this technology.
The future of work demands upskilling, adaptation, and a reimagining of how humans and AI can collaborate. It’s less about replacement and more about expanding what’s possible together.
