Blacks and Hispanics in North Carolina Earn Lower Wages than Whites

Photo byEmmanuel IkwuegbuonUnsplash

More than 1.5 million workers, or roughly 28% of North Carolina's workforce, earn less than $17 per hour, according to new data from Oxfam.

Why it matters: This figure is notably higher than the national average of 23.2%, with Oxfam suggesting that North Carolina’s decision not to raise its minimum wage has contributed to the disparity.

Photo byOxfam America Data Screenshot

State of play: In Virginia, only 21.6% of workers earn less than $17 per hour, thanks in part to gradual minimum wage increases since 2020. Today, Virginia's minimum wage is $12 per hour, compared to North Carolina's stagnant $7.25.

Zoom in: The report highlights significant wage disparities among different demographics in North Carolina:

• 33.4% of working women earn below $17 per hour, compared to 24.7% of men.
• 39.1% of Black workers and 44.4% of Hispanic workers earn less than $17 per hour, while only 25.2% of white workers fall below this threshold.
• Asian American and American Indian workers also face challenges, with 21% earning below $17 per hour.

Do you believe the above report?