What is the difference between a minimum wage job and a living wage job?
A minimum wage job is one that pays the mandated minimum wage as set out by the state of Washington. This rate is currently set at $11.50 per hour for employees in Washington, with the exception of Seattle which has a minimum wage of $15.00. This rate is the federally mandated minimum amount that an employer must pay its employees for their services. A living wage job is one that pays an amount that is actually sufficient for a worker to support themselves and their families in Washington. It is typically much higher than the current minimum wage rate and takes into account minimum costs of living. The living wage in Washington varies across the state, depending on the local cost of living, and is estimated to be around $13.00 per hour. The main difference between a minimum wage job and a living wage job is the amount of pay they provide. A minimum wage job covers the legal minimum amount of wages an employee must receive in order to cover basic costs of living. On the other hand, a living wage job provides an amount that is actually sufficient for a worker to support their family, allowing them to live a comfortable life without worry. It also takes into account the local economy and cost of living in the specific state.
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