California Wages Up 2.7% in Q1 2026 — Among Smallest Raises in U.S.

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 25, 2026

California's average weekly wage reached $1,986 in Q1 2026, sixth-highest nationally, but wage growth of 2.7% ranked eighth from the bottom and matched inflation — meaning real pay gains were essentially flat. In contrast, California led all states in job creation, adding 163,900 positions over the year, more than the entire U.S. net gain of 154,800. Staffing firms operating in California will find a labor market with robust demand but limited wage pressure, while those in states like New York and Idaho may face stronger candidate compensation expectations.