The cost of living varies significantly across the United States, but some states still have lower minimum wages than others. Join us as we discover which 17 states pay the least and how it impacts their residents.
Mississippi
According to Mississippi Public Broadcasting, the state of Mississippi has one of the lowest minimum wages in the country, sticking to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Many workers find it challenging to meet basic needs on such a wage. Despite low living costs compared to other states, the wage leaves little room for savings or unexpected expenses.
South Carolina
South Carolina is another state that follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Workers in this state face significant financial challenges, especially in areas with higher living costs. Many are forced to work multiple jobs to afford basic necessities, making it difficult to improve their economic situation.
Georgia
Georgia’s minimum wage is technically $5.15 per hour, but most employers are required to pay the federal minimum of $7.25. This discrepancy leaves many workers confused and struggling. The low wage impacts a wide range of industries, from agriculture to hospitality, making it hard for workers to thrive.
Wyoming
Wyoming’s minimum wage stands at $5.15 per hour too, though most employers must adhere to the federal minimum wage of $7.25. Despite being a low-population state, many workers find it tough to live on these wages. The cost of necessities often outpaces what they earn, leading to financial stress.
Idaho
The federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour is matched by Idaho, and here, many workers in this largely rural state struggle to make ends meet, especially with rising living costs. The low wage particularly affects those in the agricultural sector, where jobs are plentiful but pay remains insufficient.
Alabama
Over in Alabama, they also adhere to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. A lot of workers are even paid less than this. The lack of a state-specific minimum wage law means many workers struggle financially. This can make it difficult for families to afford essentials like housing, healthcare, and education, creating a cycle of poverty that is hard to break.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, which matches the federal rate. This low wage impacts a large portion of the workforce, particularly in rural areas where job opportunities are scarce. The state’s high poverty rate underscores the difficulties faced by low-wage workers trying to make ends meet.
Tennessee
There’s no state minimum wage in Tennessee either, so they rely instead on the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour. Such a low pay rate affects many workers, particularly in the service and retail sectors. The cost of living in urban areas like Nashville exacerbates the struggle for those earning minimum wage.
North Carolina
The people of North Carolina can be paid as low as the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Workers in this state face economic hardships, particularly in urban centers where living costs are higher. The wage gap makes it difficult for many to afford housing and healthcare, pushing them to seek additional employment.
Texas
Texas follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Despite a booming economy, many workers earn just the minimum wage, making it hard to keep up with the state’s cost of living. The disparity between wages and living costs is especially pronounced in major cities like Houston and Dallas.
Oklahoma
Workers in the state of Oklahoma often struggle to cover basic expenses, particularly in areas with higher living costs, due to being subjected to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The low wage impacts a significant portion of the workforce, making financial stability a challenging goal.
Virginia
The low wage minimum wage of $7.25 per hour affects many workers in the state of Virginia, particularly in the service sector. The high cost of living in cities like Richmond and Northern Virginia exacerbates the struggle for those earning minimum wage, making financial independence difficult.
Utah
Once again, Utah follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Workers in this state, especially in the retail and hospitality sectors, find it difficult to support themselves on such a low wage. Rising living costs in cities like Salt Lake City add to the financial burden faced by minimum wage earners.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is set at the federal level of $7.25 per hour as well. Many workers across the state, particularly in urban areas, struggle to afford basic needs. Low wages make it challenging for families to save for emergencies or invest in education, perpetuating economic hardship.
Indiana
Another state that adheres to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour is Indiana. Workers in this state, especially those in rural areas, face significant financial challenges. The wage gap makes it hard to cover essential expenses, and many are forced to work multiple jobs to make ends meet.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s minimum wage is aligned with the federal rate, too. Despite the state’s relatively high cost of living, many workers earn just $7.25 per hour, making it hard to cover basic expenses. This wage disparity creates significant financial stress for those at the lower end of the pay scale.
Kansas
Finally, Kansas follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The low wage impacts many workers, particularly in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The financial strain of living on minimum wage makes it difficult for families to afford healthcare, education, and other necessities.
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