The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the median weekly wages for full-time workers in the U.S. have increased by nearly 5% compared to last year.
As of the first quarter of 2025, the median weekly wage stands at $1,194, translating to a monthly income of around $5,174 or an annual salary of roughly $62,088.
Gender Wage Gaps Persist
The figures reveal a continuing wage gap, with women earning an average of $1,096 per week. This discrepancy varies by race and ethnicity:
- Black women: make 96.8% of the median income of Black men.
- Hispanic women: earn 88.7% of what Hispanic men do.
- White women: are at 82.2% of white men’s earnings.
- Asian women: earn 79.9% compared to Asian men.
Average Salary by Age
Age is a significant factor, with salaries typically rising until mid-career and then tapering off as one approaches retirement. Here’s how salaries break down by age group:
- Ages 16-19: $648 weekly or $33,696 annually.
- Ages 20-24: $792 weekly or $41,184 annually.
- Ages 25-34: $1,125 weekly or $58,500 annually.
- Ages 35-44: $1,332 weekly or $69,264 annually.
- Ages 45-54: $1,376 weekly or $71,552 annually.
- Ages 55-64: $1,302 weekly or $67,704 annually.
- Over 65: $1,222 weekly or $63,544 annually.
Interestingly, men in the 45 to 54 age bracket earn the most, with a weekly wage of $1,512, while women in the same age group earn slightly less, averaging $1,233. Among younger workers aged 16 to 24, the gender wage gap shrinks, with women earning 92.2% of men’s pay. However, this gap widens to 84% for those aged 25-54 and drops further to 77.1% for individuals over 55.
Average Salary by Education Level
Education continues to significantly influence earning potential. Here’s how salaries vary by education:
- Less than high school: $743 weekly or $38,636 annually.
- High school diploma: $953 weekly or $49,556 annually.
- Some college/associate degree: $1,096 weekly or $56,992 annually.
- Bachelor’s degree: $1,603 weekly or $83,356 annually.
- Advanced degree: $1,961 weekly or $101,972 annually.
Workers with a bachelor’s degree make over 68% more than those without higher education, averaging an additional $33,800 per year. For those with advanced degrees, about 10% of men earn over $5,079 weekly, while women in this category earn more than $3,528.
