The living wage for a single adult in Tompkins County has surged to $24.82 per hour, a 34.5% increase from 2023, driven by rising housing and transportation costs. Meanwhile, the upstate New York minimum wage sits at $15.50, leaving many workers struggling to afford basic necessities.
A Cornell study found that nearly half of local workers—especially women and people of color—earn below the new living wage. Housing remains the biggest expense, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment up 58% since 2019. Childcare costs also continue to burden families, with infant care averaging $2,383 per month.
As local advocates push for a higher minimum wage, concerns grow over how businesses will adjust. While some support a wage increase, others warn it could hurt job retention and economic competitiveness.
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