Minimum Wage: A Threat to the American Dream?
In a country where the federal minimum wage stands at a meager $7.25 an hour, the “American Dream” seems increasingly out of reach as living expenses continue to rise due to inflation and economic uncertainty. The harsh reality is a healthy lifestyle is becoming unsustainable in the United States. Maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, starting businesses, spending family time, and accessing quality education and healthcare services are luxuries that those facing financial hardships simply cannot afford.
Considering all occupations, the average American earns about $13.40 an hour in 2023. If working the standard 40 hour week, that leaves you with a $27,801.60 yearly income before taxes. Excluding transportation, yearly expenses in the United States hover around $25,000; taking into account rent costs are approximately $1,400 a month, groceries average about $293 monthly per person, and utilities run Americans an estimated $441 every month on average. The situation gets a bit hectic when you include transportation. Households spent an average of $10,961 on transportation in 2021. This does not provide much financial flexibility for basic living, let alone any potential for growth.
Lower-income individuals and families are left with little room to prioritize their health or personal growth. As a result, individuals in this socio-economic bracket are forced to make difficult choices, often sacrificing their well-being in the process. The disparity in access to healthy food perpetuates a cycle of poor dietary choices and adverse health outcomes. In many low-income neighborhoods, so-called "food deserts" prevail, where residents have limited access to grocery stores offering fresh and affordable produce. Instead, they are left with few options, often relying on cheaper, processed foods high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium.
The combination of financial and time constraints creates a significant barrier to maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Gym memberships, fitness classes, and sports programs come with a hefty price tag and time commitment that most individuals often cannot afford. Obtaining necessary medical care can also be an overwhelming task. Without adequate health insurance coverage, individuals often forgo preventive screenings, regular check-ups, and necessary treatments due to the exorbitant costs of deductibles and co-pays. This lack of healthcare access leads to undiagnosed or untreated health conditions, which can escalate into more serious and costly problems down the line. The consequences of these inequities in healthcare access are detrimental to the overall health and well-being of lower-income individuals and families.
It is crucial to recognize that the challenges faced by lower-income families extend beyond financial constraints alone. Factors such as limited educational opportunities, inadequate housing, and unsafe neighborhoods also contribute to poor health outcomes. These social determinants of health perpetuate a cycle of disadvantage, making it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to break free from the constraints that hinder their pursuit of a healthy lifestyle.
With an average minimum wage of $13.40, it is evident that overall health and wellness is not a priority for lawmakers in the United States. This blatant oversight is no longer acceptable for many lower-income families. The lack of financial resources, combined with limited access to nutritious food, exercise opportunities, quality education, and healthcare services, creates an insurmountable barrier to achieving and maintaining good health. Addressing these disparities is essential for creating a more equitable society, where everyone, regardless of their income, has the opportunity to lead a fulfilled, healthy life.