Steady Growth in Real Wages

January 27, 2025

Wages rose strongly with inflation beginning in mid-2021, but the pace of price increases was faster than wage increases, leading to a loss of buying power despite higher income. Real wages — adjusted for inflation — actually declined during this period. For example, at the height of inflation in June 2022, wages increased at an annual rate of 6.7%, but real wages declined by 2.4%.



Inflation has dropped dramatically since then, while wage growth has cooled more slowly, leading to solid gains in real wages. If this trend continues, it could help keep the economy strong as workers catch up from the hardship of high inflation and benefit from increased income in relation to the cost of living.

A graph showing inflation, wage growth, and real wage growth.

All Securities Through Money Concepts Capital Corp., Member FINRA / SIPC

11440 North Jog Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 Phone: 561.472.2000

Copyright 2010 Money Concepts International Inc.

Investments are not FDIC or NCUA Insured

May Lose Value - No Bank or Credit Union Guarantee

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of MI. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2020.

A man in a suit is using a laptop and a tablet.
April 22, 2025
Extended warranties are offered by retailers for an additional cost and cover product repairs for a specific period of time under certain conditions.
A man is talking on a cell phone in a bakery while looking at a tablet.
April 22, 2025
Most of us think of life insurance as protection against financial loss should we die prematurely. But when we reach retirement and the kids are all self-sufficient, do we still need life insurance?
A woman is sitting at a table with a laptop and a piece of paper.
April 22, 2025
529 plans were originally created in 1996 as a tax-advantaged way to save for college.
A group of business people are standing next to each other in front of a white wall.
April 22, 2025
The labor force participation rate — the percentage of Americans age 16 and older who are working or actively looking for work — peaked in early 2000.
Show More