Wage crisis hits 73% of American workers: ResumeNow survey
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — Seventy-three percent of American workers are struggling to afford more than basic living expenses, according to a new survey released by Resume Now.
The 2025 Wage Reality Report reveals financial insecurity across the U.S. workforce, with only 6% of employees able to save for their future.
The breaking point
“Rising costs, stagnant wages, and a lack of meaningful support from employers are creating a perfect storm of stress, dissatisfaction, and instability in the workforce,” said Keith Spencer, career expert at Resume Now.
The survey of 1,065 U.S. workers conducted on December 11, 2024 finds that 12% frequently cannot afford basic living expenses, while 24% barely manage to cover essentials.
Perhaps most alarming is that one-third of workers report their salaries have failed to keep pace with inflation.
Survival strategies of American workers
The financial strain has forced workers to adopt desperate measures. Forty-four percent have turned to friends or family for financial assistance, while 38% have sought community or government aid.
The housing crisis has pushed 29% of workers to relocate to more affordable areas, while 28% have resorted to taking on debt just to cover their basic living expenses.
Workplace morale in freefall
With 55% of workers believing their salaries are inadequate, the effects ripple through organizational culture. Only 4% of employees report feeling truly valued in their roles, while 22% express feelings of being unappreciated, directly affecting team morale.
“This report highlights a growing financial crisis that affects workers across all income levels,” Spencer noted.
Workers are demanding change, with 52% calling for enhanced benefits packages and 40% seeking clear career advancement pathways.
As living costs continue to surge, with housing expenses (55%) and everyday essentials (41%) topping workers’ financial concerns, the need for meaningful intervention becomes increasingly urgent.
