## How much does a minimum wage worker earn in the United States? 2025 Comparison

Working in the USA with the minimum wage can be quite different from what you imagine. While Brazil has a single national minimum, the American system is fragmented: there is a federal minimum, but each state can set its own rate — and the difference is huge.

The US federal minimum has been $7.25 per hour since 2009. However, this is just the base. Many states already exceed $15 per hour, and places like Washington D.C. reach $17.50/h. A worker can earn from $7.25 up to $17.50/h depending on the location — a difference that drastically impacts the monthly budget.

## How does salary calculation work in the United States?

Unlike Brazil, everything is based on hours. The calculation is simple:

**Hourly rate × 40 hours/week × 4 weeks = monthly salary**

With the federal minimum (US$ 7.25/h):
- 7.25 × 40 × 4 = **$1,160 per month**

In Washington D.C., where the minimum is $17.50/h:
- 17.50 × 40 × 4 = **$2,800 per month**

Weekly, a worker earning the federal minimum makes $290, while in regions with higher minimum wages, it exceeds $700/week. Regional variation is key to the final purchasing power.

## What is the minimum wage in each state?

Values vary significantly:

- **District of Columbia:** $17.50/h (highest in the country)
- **Washington:** $16.66/h
- **California:** $16.50/h
- **New York:** $15.50/h to $16.50/h (depending on region)
- **Massachusetts:** $15/h
- **Federal (applicable in many states):** $7.25/h

States like Georgia and Wyoming officially have lower rates ($5.15/h), but the federal minimum generally prevails for most jobs, ensuring a minimum of $7.25.

## Converting to reais: how much is it in Brazilian currency?

Considering the 2025 exchange rate (approximately R$ 5.20 per dollar):

**Federal minimum:**
- Per hour: US$ 7.25 ≈ R$ 37.70
- Monthly: US$ 1,160 ≈ R$ 6,032

**In Washington D.C.:**
- Monthly: US$ 2,800 ≈ R$ 14,560

At first glance, the amount in reais seems much higher than the Brazilian minimum wage of R$ 1,518. However, this direct comparison is misleading.

## Minimum wage in the US vs Brazil: real purchasing power

The cost of living in the United States is structurally different. A salary of US$ 1,160 in the US does not cover basic expenses:

- Cost of living (excluding rent): US$ 1,185/month
- Average rent: US$ 1,626/month

**Total approximate: US$ 2,811/month**

This means that even earning the US federal minimum working 40 hours a week, the salary does not cover the expenses. Many workers need:
- More than one job
- Tips to supplement income (if applicable)
- Government benefits

In Brazil, although R$ 1,518 is also insufficient in many capitals, the cost structure is different, especially housing.

## Who works earning the minimum wage?

Common professions earning the minimum:
- Fast-food and restaurant attendants
- Cashiers
- Stockers
- Supermarket employees
- Cleaning assistants
- Entry-level operational positions

Waiters and professionals receiving tips may earn a lower base salary (sometimes US$ 2 to US$ 3 per hour in some states), as tips supplement income.

## Is it possible to live on minimum wage in the United States?

The realistic answer is: in most cases, it’s extremely difficult. Even in states with higher minimums like California or D.C., rent costs are proportionally high. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle offer higher wages but also have the most expensive rents in the country.

For Brazilians considering moving to the US, it’s essential to research not only the state minimum wage but also the specific cost of living — rent, food, transportation — before making any professional or relocation decision.

The minimum wage system in the United States remains decentralized: while the federal minimum has been frozen since 2009, states and cities approve significant increases to keep up with inflation and local realities.