The Wages Index
Average hourly earnings, total private sector (U.S., seasonally adjusted)
Last updated: · Data through July 2026
BLS average hourly earnings for all private-sector employees reached $37.62 in July 2026.
Then
2019
$28.00/hr
Now
2026
$37.62/hr
Change
2019–2026
+34%
↑ Rising
The Wages Index: 2015–2026
Average hourly earnings, total private sector (U.S., seasonally adjusted)
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Employment Statistics (CES0500000003)keepingupwithinflation.com
Historical Datakeepingupwithinflation.com
| Year | Price | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $25.00 | — |
| 2016 | $25.50 | +2.0% |
| 2017 | $26.00 | +2.0% |
| 2018 | $26.80 | +3.1% |
| 2019 | $28.00 | +4.5% |
| 2020 | $28.50 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $29.90 | +4.9% |
| 2022 | $32.00 | +7.0% |
| 2023 | $33.40 | +4.4% |
| 2024 | $34.75 | +4.0% |
| 2025 | $35.80 | +3.0% |
| 2026 | $37.62 | +5.1% |
Analysis
Average hourly earnings for all private-sector employees were $37.62 in July 2026 (BLS CES0500000003, seasonally adjusted) — about 34% above the 2019 chart baseline of $28.00.
Nominal wage growth has been solid, but cumulative CPI since 2019 means real pay depends on when you compare. Use the Salary Inflation Calculator and Wages vs Inflation for the squeeze check.
Updated August 15, 2026.