Why Americans Aren’t Paid Enough

1,561,636
0
Published 2022-07-19
When adjusted for inflation, wages have remained virtually unchanged over the last 50 years, with workers today earning just 12 cents more than they did in 1972. And with inflation at its highest since 1971, Americans are feeling the pain of slow wage growth. Two-thirds of American workers said that inflation has outpaced any salary gains made in the past year. But some economists argue that the concept is merely a myth politicians use to promote their careers. So, how real is wage stagnation in America today and what does it mean for American workers? Watch the video to find out.

» Subscribe to CNBC: cnb.cx/SubscribeCNBC
» Subscribe to CNBC TV: cnb.cx/SubscribeCNBCtelevision

About CNBC: From 'Wall Street' to 'Main Street' to award winning original documentaries and Reality TV series, CNBC has you covered. Experience special sneak peeks of your favorite shows, exclusive video and more.

Connect with CNBC News Online
Get the latest news: www.cnbc.com/
Follow CNBC on LinkedIn: cnb.cx/LinkedInCNBC
Follow CNBC News on Facebook: cnb.cx/LikeCNBC
Follow CNBC News on Twitter: cnb.cx/FollowCNBC
Follow CNBC News on Instagram: cnb.cx/InstagramCNBC

#cnbc
Why Americans Aren’t Paid Enough

All Comments (21)
  • @Beatricegove733
    The only American who won't acknowledge this Administration's failed economic policies is Joe Biden. "Shrink-flation' is the least of our worries compared to rising rents and stagnant wages, but it is an undeniable indicator of how bad our inflation has gotten. I have $100k that i like to invest in a non-retirement account, any advice on that?
  • @10-OSwords
    The fact that we have a "gig economy" & people have to work 3 jobs just to rent with roommates...says it all.
  • Because it immediately affects their level of living, people are impacted by inflation far more swiftly than they are by a stock or real estate market disaster. It is hardly surprising that market sentiment is as gloomy as it is right now. We are in desperate need of your help if we are to survive in this economy.
  • @bigc2626
    There was a time in this country where a family of 4 that had a mom, dad and two kids. Dad was a vacuum cleaner salesman, worked Monday-Friday. Mom stayed home and took care of the kids. Dads pay was enough to support the whole family, had some money spend and a little more to put away and save. Dad stayed with the vacuum cleaner company for 30 years and then retired. What the hell happened? Why can’t it still be like that?
  • @kingblicky635
    Imagine being broke and these experts say “well you’re not really broke…”
  • I think this is a pretty good way to essentially say that corporate greed is why wages are stagnant. Productivity/profits skyrocketed with tech and companies realized they didn’t have to pay more. Then they realized there were stragies to keep you at the low pay. I think the younger generation is def realizing this and the pandemic just helped.
  • @shirleyc3937
    It’s ridiculous, the sad part is a lot of Americans support corporate greed
  • @PatrickLloyd-
    The US economy is grappling with uncertainties, global fluctuations, and pandemic aftermath, causing instability. Rising inflation, sluggish growth, and trade disruptions need urgent attention from all sectors to restore stability and stimulate growth.
  • @comfixit
    Any inflation indicator that ignores the fact in the 60s/70s that a middle class worker could support a family on one income owning a house in decent neighborhood vs. today where two middle class workers stretch to make ends meet and a house is a distant dream that says things are holding or improving is not based on reality.
  • @midnull6009
    My wife just got a 2% raise..when inflation is 9%. Their company productivity went up by 15% this year. She lol'ed with a 2 weeks notice. :)
  • You may not have noticed inflation in years past, But 8%+ inflation over the past year should've taught you that the cost of living increases every year (home prices, rent, groceries, plane tickets, home repairs, etc.) Only way to beat inflation is by investing your money
  • I still don't understand the concept of not giving your good employees raises. YOUR EMPLOYEES ARE THE REASON WHY YOUR BUSINESS CONTINUES TO BE SUCCESSFUL. TAKE CARE OF THEM
  • @bluesdoggg
    The American dream. “You have to be asleep to believe it” -George Carlin
  • 100% true...Everything has gone up in my life, except my wages.
  • @JamiLandrell
    this year will be a year of severe economic pain all over the nation.. what steps can we take to generate more income during quantitative adjustment?I can't afford my hard-earned $180,000 savings to turn to dust
  • @eddie918
    I make 65k at my day job and still picked up a second job. Life’s just too expensive now in the last two years
  • @traceford4904
    Americans: Yay, I got a raise!" Landlord: WE got a raise.
  • I was a manager at McDonald's in the late 90s and my pay was enough to cover my mortgage, car payment, insurance, phone Etc. Now me and my wife work and just barely make enough to get by
  • @coolben854
    "Americans are working harder than ever, but stagnant wages aren't keeping up. Investing in the financial market can be a game-changer! Diversify your income streams, generate passive wealth, and break free from the cycle of underpayment. Take control of your financial future and build a brighter tomorrow - invest today!"