Wages: Down, But Maybe Up Soon

Average hourly earnings rose 0.4% in July, but they were outpaced by the CPI for all urban wage earners and clerical workers, which advanced 0.6%. Real average hourly earnings were down 0.5% from July 2004. Inflated benefits costs have depressed wages over the last few years. While total compensation growth has remained steady, rising benefit costs have driven gains in total compensation, constraining wage growth.

Is a turnaround coming? Click here to find out.