The United States has long faced challenges in setting a fair minimum wage. The federal minimum wage has remained at $7.25 per hour since 2009, failing to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living.
While some states have taken action by raising their own minimum wages—Chicago now mandates $16.20 per hour, while Missouri and Maine have set theirs at $13.75 and $14.65, respectively—millions of workers in other states continue to struggle under outdated pay standards.
Labor unions and worker advocates have consistently pushed for higher wages, leading to widespread protests in 2024. From Starbucks workers staging strikes to nationwide May Day demonstrations, the fight for fair pay remains ongoing.
However, with political divisions and corporate resistance, achieving a nationwide wage increase remains an uphill battle. The outcome of these efforts will determine whether the US can finally bridge the gap between wages and the cost of living.