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Just how many workers in the United States are considered low-wage employees?
According to theEconomic Policy Institute, 31 million people in the U.S. earn under $17 per hour.
Thats about 21% of the workforce.
The amount is important because of the Raise the Wage Act of 2023.
That would be a significant increase for lots of low-wage workers.
Heres a look at thestates with the most low-wage workers, along with those states costs of living.
That amounts to $15,600 per year for a 40-hour work week.
Mississippis annual cost of living stands at $32,336 per year, according to Forbes.
At $33,966, Oklahomas cost of living is the countrys 47th lowest.
West Virginia
Another state with a higher percentage of low-wage workers is West Virginia.
Here, 35% of the workforce earns under $17 per hour.
That means 238,000 workers.
West Virginias cost of living is $34,861, which ranks 43rd out of the 50 states.
Thats about 412,000 workers.
Arkansas comes right behind Mississippi when it comes to a low cost of living.
The average cost of living here is $32,979.
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