REPORT Whatcom County wages up, but still lag behind other WA counties

Whatcom County experienced a 6% rise in average weekly wages, reaching $1,286 in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite this positive trend, the county's wage growth still lags behind the state average, primarily due to a significant 13% increase in King County. Ranking as the second-lowest in wages among Washington's ten largest counties, Whatcom faces ongoing economic challenges.

A SmartAsset study reveals that single adults in Washington need nearly $110,000 annually to live comfortably, which underscores the financial pressures on residents. This analysis positions Washington as the fifth-most expensive state in the U. S. , emphasizing the need for higher wages. The wage growth in Whatcom County may not be sufficient to meet the rising cost of living.

Local officials are likely to focus on economic strategies to improve wage conditions further. These developments highlight the importance of addressing wage disparities in the region.