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Minimum wage across the United States

As the minimum wage debate in the U.S. rages on, states and cities across the country are voting on hikes some say could lead to broad job losses and others claim will help narrow the income-inequality gap and boost the economy.  Massachusetts on Wednesday is the latest state expected to usher in a higher minimum wage, as its House votes on a State Senate-approved bill that would increase the rate from $8 an hour to $11 by 2017. These local changes come as the Obama administration lobbies to raise the federal rate from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour, tying increases to an inflation index.

As the graphic below illustrates (click for larger image), the range of workers making minimum-wage salaries is wider than some might believe; while largely skewing young and in the service industry, it’s not just teenage fast-food workers cashing paychecks at this level. The prospect of living on a minimum-wage income also differs widely depending on where you live; while it might be relatively manageable (while still difficult) in Houston, it’s all but impossible in New York City.

What do you think: Will minimum wage increases at the local level help or hurt the economy?  Let us know in the comment section below.

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