Story perspectives

Majority of U.S. Workers Struggle Despite Full-Time Jobs

5/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Ludwig Institute study shows many U.S. households struggle to afford a quality life despite full-time employment.
Median earnings have decreased by 4% since 2001, while housing, healthcare, and education costs have risen over 100%.
The bottom 60% of earners receive only 22.1% of disposable income, falling short of the 39% needed for basic living standards.
LISEP Chairman Gene Ludwig states that GDP figures do not capture the economic challenges faced by many Americans.

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Story summary

A Ludwig Institute study shows many U.S. households struggle to afford a quality life despite full-time employment.
Median earnings have decreased by 4% since 2001, while housing, healthcare, and education costs have risen over 100%.
The bottom 60% of earners receive only 22.1% of disposable income, falling short of the 39% needed for basic living standards.
LISEP Chairman Gene Ludwig states that GDP figures do not capture the economic challenges faced by many Americans.