Santa Fe Workers to See Living Wage Raise March 1, 2022;

 Living Wage to Increase 5.11% to $12.95

February 19, 2022 -- Based on a 12-month total increase of 5.11% in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Western Region for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers for 2022, Santa Fe workers will see the Living Wage increase to $12.95 an hour as of March 1. The Living Wage for 2021 was $12.32 an hour.

All employers within the City of Santa Fe are required to pay all workers at least the Living Wage.

In 2007 Santa Fe decided to adjust the Living Wage with the annual cost of living in order to help ensure that workers’ wages would keep pace with inflation. The term Living Wage refers to the minimum hourly wage necessary for a person to achieve a higher standard of living. According to the US Department of Labor, the Federal minimum wage has been at $7.25 since 2009.

 According to the Economic Policy Institute, the minimum wage is a critical labor standard meant to ensure a fair wage for this country’s lowest-paid workers, and the declining value of the federal minimum wage over time has contributed to the growth in U.S. income inequality. As the cost of living increases, the Living Wage in Santa Fe helps ensure full-time workers do not live in poverty.

 City of Santa Fe employees earn a minimum wage of $15 an hour. City government leadership recognizes that City workers are its most valuable assets, and continues to take steps to retain and recruit capable employees. To find information regarding current job announcements and submit an application, please visit the Job Opportunities Portal.

 The Federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour. Under New Mexico law the minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.80 per hour. The City’s Living Wage Ordinance does not set a minimum wage for tipped workers. 

 For more information, contact Constituent Services by email at constituentservices@santafenm.gov, or by phone at (505) 955-6949