Cost Of Living
September 18, 2025 2025-09-18 12:27Cost Of Living
Is the minimum wage enough?
The federal minimum wage is $7.25. Most states have their own rates; for example, Florida’s is $13 an hour. While higher than the federal rate, it’s still low. Recognizing these limitations highlights challenges for low-income workers.
In most places, the $7.25 federal minimum wage does not cover the cost of living. For example, earning this wage for 40 hours a week results in an annual income of $15,080. The 2024 federal poverty line for one person is $15,060. This means a single full-time minimum wage worker is just above the poverty line, while a single parent with one child (poverty line: $20,440) falls below it. Two adults, both earning minimum wage, have a combined annual income of $30,160, which is above the two-person poverty line of $20,440, but with children, their household income may remain at or below poverty thresholds. In Michigan, for comparison, the required living wage for a single adult is $20.28 per hour. To support one child, each of two working adults needs to earn $20.46 an hour, and for two children, $25.78 an hour is needed.
“Minimum wage is so low that it is almost impossible to live in the world with these prices, especially when you need to live independently,” said Deerfield Beach High School junior Andrew Weiss.
When it comes to living in the United States, it can be extremely expensive, especially for rent, groceries, and even gas. While some necessities can be split up and money can be distributed, it is harder, especially for parents, people with criminal records, and even young adults just trying to start their adulthood the right way. Recently, homelessness has hit an all-time high, as well as unemployment. With it being difficult to find jobs, and some of those jobs paying the low minimum wage, it has contributed to the homelessness rate.
“Many times, especially if you’re trying to live in an apartment, the minimum wage just barely covers rent and food. Even with places paying $10-$13 an hour, some people have it harder, such as those with kids or college students. Money adds up, and many times, it’s just not enough,” said DBHS senior Karma Saleen.
Many people grow up, or come to the United States for a better life and future, but not everyone gets lucky. A good job with good pay guarantees a good life; however, even people working a minimum wage job should be able to afford the costs of living in the country. Those with kids, disabilities, or those having to pay college tuition should be able to afford all their necessities without having to work multiple jobs at a time.
