In the state of Oregon, the minimum wage has garnered significant attention due to its progressive stance on this crucial labor issue. The current minimum wage stands in Oregon from July 1 of this year through June 30 of 2024 includes a non-urban and urban breakdown. In the United States, the minimum wage has long been a topic of debate and policy reform. Raimore Construction Company has been a part of the debate in its push to get people into the trades that pay much higher than minimum wages.
In Oregon non-urban counties are paid $13.20 an hour; standard counties are paid $14.20 an hour, and the Portland metro area is paid $15.45 an hour. Oregon has been at the forefront of the movement to raise the minimum wage. It’s important to note that the state has adopted a tiered system, which considers factors such as location and employer size when determining the minimum wage. This approach reflects Oregon’s recognition of the varying costs of living across the state. State contracts awarded to companies like Raimore often provide living wage jobs versus minimum wage jobs. A worker can start out with no high school diploma and make $30 – $50 per hour.
Urban Areas: In Oregon’s urban areas, the minimum wage is set at a higher rate. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the minimum wage in the Portland metro area was $13.25 per hour, while it was slightly lower in non-urban counties. Next July, the state will adjust the minimum wage based on inflation and the consumer price index.
Portland will always be $1.25 over the standard. Non-urban counties will be a dollar less than the standard. For most of Oregon, the standard minimum wage was set lower than in urban areas but higher than the federal minimum wage. In 2021, it ranged from $11.50 to $12 per hour, depending on the location.
The state recognizes that small employers may face different challenges. Therefore, they have a separate minimum wage rate that is typically lower than the standard rate. However, construction companies are providing jobs to people in both rural and urban areas that will make the same living wage pay.
Oregon’s approach, however, includes planned incremental increases in the minimum wage. This allows businesses to adjust gradually to the new wage requirements. The state regularly evaluates economic conditions and adjusts its minimum wage accordingly. By taking this measured approach, Oregon aims to strike a balance between improving the livelihood of workers and supporting the sustainability of businesses.
