The livable wage, also known as the living wage, is defined as the amount of income determined to provide a decent standard of living. In public policy, advocates define the living wage as the minimum income necessary for a worker to meet their basic needs.

What is a livable wage in the US?

The living wage in the United States is $16.54 per hour, or $68,808 per year, in 2019, before taxes for a family of four (two working adults, two children), compared to $16.14 in 2018. The minimum wage does not provide a living wage for most American families.

Is $15 an hour a livable wage?

While these wage hikes are necessary and a step in the right direction, $15 an hour is not a living wage for most Americans.