Industry Wages Have risen 75% In The Past Ten Years

On July 1st, Portland Metro area Minimum Wage increased to $16.30. The Oregon legislature passed a stepped increase to the minimum wage that took effect on July 1st, 2016, and ran through 2022. Beginning last July, the rate has been adjusted annually for inflation, with the new rate starting July 1st, 2025, set at $16.30. This represents a 75% increase over the past 10 years.

Although the minimum wage does not directly impact us, it does have an indirect effect. Nationally, only 1.4% of workers are at minimum wage. We have always paid above minimum wage for our entry-level labor positions. Our work is harder and requires more effort and training than most traditional minimum wage jobs. Our current entry-level wage is $21.00, and the average wage is $23.28. This has also increased by 75% over the past 10 years and by 15% over the past 3 years, driven by low unemployment and a strong economy. Portland Metro Area sits at just 4.3% unemployment.

We work hard to maintain a great work environment, and that has helped us attract and retain a great staff. We also use the H2B Visa program for our seasonal labor. We hear about other contractors who cannot perform their work due to their struggle with labor. We feel somewhat lucky, but know it is more than luck, it is our focus. And we are proud to have again been selected one of the Best Companies to work for in Oregon.  

GO TEAM ORANGE