For most working Americans, the minimum wage is an important issue. While some states are starting to raise the minimum wage, the idea of an hourly wage can still be confusing to many people.
So, just how much does 15 dollars an hour total in a year?
Knowing the answer to this question can help you better understand your financial situation as well as the standard of living and wages that so many others are struggling with.
So, let’s find out more about these numbers and explain exactly what $15 an hour looks like annually.
Contents
An Overview
At $15 per hour, a full-time work schedule of 40 hours per week for 52 weeks per year translates into a yearly income of $31,200. It marks a significant increase above the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. This corresponds to only $15,080 in annual earnings.
But it’s all relative…
It’s important to note that the actual amount an individual would earn would depend on their exact work schedule and the number of hours they work. For example, if an individual works 30 hours per week, their annual income would be $23,400, while if they work 50 hours per week, their annual income would be $39,000.
A $15 minimum wage would represent a significant increase for many low-wage workers, providing them with a higher standard of living and greater financial stability. However, it would also likely result in increased labor costs for businesses, particularly for those that rely heavily on low-wage workers.
The Current State of Minimum Wage in the US
As mentioned, the federal minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour, having been raised way back in 2009. This rate has been criticized as insufficient for meeting the needs of many workers, leading to calls for an increase to $15 per hour. However, when the two rates are compared, the potential impact on workers and the economy as a whole is highlighted.
Let’s look at this logically…
A full-time worker earning $7.25 per hour would earn $15,080 before taxes, about half the $31,200 earned by a worker earning $15 per hour. This difference reflects a large rise in employees’ purchasing power, which could assist to mitigate poverty and income inequality.
However, a $15 per hour minimum wage would also have a significant impact on the economy. According to studies, raising the minimum wage might lead to greater consumer spending since workers have more money to spend on goods and services. This, in turn, can lead to job creation and economic growth.
But then…
Some argue that a $15 per hour minimum wage could have negative consequences. It could reduce the number of job opportunities available, especially for low-skilled workers. Plus, it could actually increase the cost of goods and services as businesses try to compensate for the money spent on worker salaries. Small businesses, in particular, may struggle to absorb the increased labor costs, potentially leading to job cuts or even closures.
It’s a complicated matter…
Ok, but How Much is $15 an Hour After Tax?
The amount of money an individual takes home after taxes depends very much on their tax situation, including their taxable income, filing status, and the number of dependents. However, on average, federal income taxes for a single filer with a taxable income of $31,200 (the annual equivalent of $15 per hour) would amount to approximately $3,360.
But there’s more…
In addition to federal income taxes, individuals may also be subject to state and local taxes, as well as Social Security and Medicare taxes. So, the exact amount of taxes an individual would pay would depend on their specific tax situation and the laws of their state and local jurisdiction.
It’s also important to note that while a $15 minimum wage would provide a significant increase in income, it would also likely result in increased tax obligations. As a result, the actual amount of money an individual would take home after taxes could obviously be lower than the gross amount of $15 per hour.
See how tricky this stuff can be?
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Earning $15 an Hour
So, in summary, a $15 minimum wage has been a topic of intense debate in recent years, with advocates claiming that it would improve the financial stability of low-wage workers and boost the economy. And this is while opponents argue that it would lead to job losses and economic hardship. In this section, I will more succinctly highlight both the pros and cons of a $15 minimum wage.
Benefits of $15 Per Hour
Maximized purchasing power
A $15 minimum wage would provide a significant increase in income for low-wage workers, giving them more money to meet their basic needs. Potentially leading to increased consumer spending and economic growth.
Improved financial stability
With a higher minimum wage, workers would be less likely to live in poverty and would be better able to support themselves and their families.
Reduced income inequality
The gap between low-wage and high-wage workers would be narrowed, reducing income inequality and improving economic mobility.
The stimulus for local economies
With more money in the hands of low-wage workers, local economies can benefit from increased consumer spending.
Drawbacks of $15 Per Hour
Job loss
Some employers, particularly small businesses, may struggle to absorb the increased labor costs associated with a $15 minimum wage. Potentially leading to job losses or reductions in hours for workers.
Increased prices
Higher wages for low-wage workers can lead to increased prices for goods and services, which could harm many consumers, particularly those on fixed incomes.
Reduced competitiveness
Some businesses may struggle to remain competitive in the global market with higher labor costs, potentially leading to reduced economic growth and job losses.
Reduced incentives for skill development
A higher minimum wage may reduce incentives for low-wage workers to acquire new skills and advance in their careers. This is because they can earn a decent enough living without further education or training.
Small businesses may close
Small businesses are a crucial part of the economy, employing millions of workers and generating a great deal of economic activity. Many small businesses operate on tight margins and may struggle to absorb any kind of increased labor costs. So much so that we could see many small business closures, particularly those that rely heavily on low-wage workers.
So, as you can clearly see…
The drawbacks and benefits of a $15 minimum wage are complex and interrelated. The decision to raise the minimum wage should be made with careful consideration of all potential impacts. Taking into account the needs of low-wage workers, businesses, and the economy as a whole.
Salary vs Hourly Pay
So we’ve answered $15 an hour is how much a year and what having this as the minimum wage would mean for US workers. But perhaps you’re not really interested in the economic impact of a minimum wage increase to $15 p/h. Maybe you’re simply job speculating and want to know how to calculate your total earnings in 2023.
If so, check out our dedicated articles on this subject, which answer, How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate, How To Calculate Hours Worked, How to Calculate Holiday Pay, or What Is Gross Monthly Income, and all about Annual Net Income: Definition and How to Calculate.
Also, take a look at, What is Freelancing? And discover how doing this can raise or lower your hourly pay.
Finally, you might want to know about these Top Easy Jobs That Pay Well, these Best Remote Jobs That Pay Well, or these High Paying Jobs Requiring a Bachelor’s Degree.
Ok, back to today’s hourly wage analysis…
Final Thoughts
As discussed, $15 an hour is a significant increase from the current federal minimum wage of $7.25. However, the amount of money an individual takes home after taxes would depend on their personal tax situation, including their taxable income, filing status, and the number of dependents.
A $15 minimum wage would have the potential to provide a higher standard of living and greater financial stability for many low-wage workers. But, it would also likely result in increased labor costs for businesses.
Essentially, though, if you’re thinking of taking a job that pays $15 an hour, be aware that you would be earning around double the current minimum wage. You’d be coming out with an annual salary of approximately $27,840 after taxes, which many people would be incredibly happy with! So, take a careful look at your personal situation and make your decision from there.
Happy earnings!