At the Living Wage Institute, we help U.S. employers make the living wage a standard part of their strategy — no matter where they are in their journey — unlocking better business performance while also improving outcomes for workers and their families.
We work in partnership with employers to take living wage data and turn it into impact.
Connect to Data
We produce the data hosted on the Living Wage Calculator and connect teams to the right living wage data for their needs as well as a bench of experts who can help them develop a living wage strategy.
Unpack Insights
Using software informed by and built for compensation teams, we provide custom support to unpack insights and make recommendations for how to adjust wages on pace with employers' goals.
Build Long-Term Impact
We work with teams to track the impact of wage increases on business and employees, creating case studies and other materials to showcase leadership on living wages.
Why now?
With over 19 million workers in the U.S. still earning less than $15.00 per hour — just 65% of what a single worker actually needs to earn — it’s not surprising that many Americans are struggling to meet their basic needs. By using living wage as a reference point, employers not only make a difference for workers and their families, but their business, too.
Reduce the risk of worker turnover, which comes with high replacement costs.
Incentivize greater on-the-job productivity and employee engagement.
Increase competitive advantage by attracting, developing and retaining top talent.
Address deep-seated inequities in pay, turning DEI commitments into action.
Our Team
The Living Wage Institute was co-founded as a benefit corporation in 2023, leveraging over 20 years of expertise from the creators of the Living Wage Calculator — a leading source for living wage data in the U.S. Our team is a dynamic blend of data scientists, technologists, and economic geographers dedicated to empowering employers with the resources to build and invest in the type of jobs that will enable their business, workers and communities to thrive equitably.
Get in Touch
Reach out to connect with our experts and learn more about how the Living Wage Institute can support your organization.