Economic council survey reveals regional working wage increase

After receiving data back from their third annual regional wages and skills survey, the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council found that worker’s wages have increased in 2023.

According to a news release from the Council, 22 regional manufacturing industries participated in the survey to provide insight into current wage rates, benefit structures and employee skill gaps.

The survey highlights share that from 2022 to 2023 entry level wages have reportedly increased from an average of $17.43 to $17.93 per hour and welder wages have increased 10%. Overall, the survey reportedly found that wages have increased between 3% and 5% since 2022.

The council conducted the survey in order to provide guidance to their workforce and industry partners and to ensure the region has competitive wages and benefits and can provide training opportunities to address skill gaps.