In the United States of America, where about half a million Ukrainians reside, it is important to be aware of the opportunities for legalization and employment. For many refugees, the average salary in the USA remains unattainable due to language proficiency requirements and the federal government’s recognition of their education. Typically, migrants start their careers in low-paying positions.
This is reported by Finway
In 2025, the minimum wage in the USA remains a significant issue, and we will examine which professions receive this pay, as well as which categories of the population may earn less than the legally established minimum.
Minimum Wage Levels in the USA
Research shows that only 1.3% of workers in the USA earn the minimum wage. At the federal level, it is set at $7.25 per hour. With this salary, a worker can earn approximately $1,250 per month or $15,000 per year before taxes, bringing them close to the poverty line.
Each state has the right to set its own minimum wage, and in some regions, it can be one and a half to two times higher than the federal rate. If a state does not have an official rate, or if it is lower than $7.25, the federal rate applies. For example, in Seattle and San Francisco, workers earn a minimum of $18 per hour.
Minimum Wage by State
The highest minimum wage rates in the USA are recorded in Washington, California, New York, and Connecticut, where it stands at $16.35 per hour. At the same time, these regions are considered expensive to live in.
The lowest rate, which is $5.15, is in Georgia and Wyoming, so the federal rate applies here. In Texas, Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Utah, the minimum wage corresponds to the federal level.
The federal minimum drops to $2.13 per hour for professions that receive tips, such as waitstaff and bartenders. However, combined with tips, their total income must not be less than $7.25 per hour.
“The lowest wages in America are for people without higher education engaged in low-skilled work.”
Among the professions where minimum wage predominates, the following can be highlighted:
- cashiers;
- fast food workers;
- nannies and elderly caregivers;
- cleaners and housekeepers;
- dishwashers and kitchen assistants;
- laborers;
- packers;
- security guards;
- hairdressers.
For foreigners entering the job market for the first time, these positions are often offered, especially if they lack English proficiency. However, there is always the possibility for career advancement.