Georgia Voters Demand Wage Reform as Cost of Living Crisis Deepens

By Janell Williams

In a resounding call for economic reform, 94% of voters in Georgia expressed that current working wages are inadequate to meet the cost of living, according to the latest 2024 election day results. This overwhelming consensus reflects growing concerns that the state’s minimum wage, set at $7.25 per hour, lags far behind the financial demands of housing, healthcare and basic necessities, exacerbating economic inequalities across the state.

The cost of living in Georgia has been steadily rising, driven by escalating housing costs, healthcare expenses, and inflationary pressures on everyday goods. Despite a thriving job market and record-low unemployment rates, many Georgians find themselves struggling to make ends meet. For instance, the average monthly rent in Columbus has surged to over $1,100, making it difficult for minimum-wage workers to afford housing without spending more than 50% of their income on rent alone.

The Georgia Budget & Policy Institute reports that a living wage for a single adult in the state should be at least $15.50 per hour, nearly double the current minimum wage. For families with children, the necessary wage is even higher, further highlighting the gap between earnings and living expenses.

The election results reflect a growing awareness and demand for legislative action to address wage stagnation and economic disparity. Some advocacy groups in the state are calling for immediate policy changes, including increasing the state minimum wage to $15 per hour and implementing safeguards to ensure wages keep pace with inflation.

Governor Brian Kemp acknowledged the voters' concerns in a recent interview, stating, "We’re keeping our promises and building a safer, stronger Georgia for hardworking Georgians! I was tired of seeing politicians saying one thing in their campaigns and doing something completely different once they were elected."

As Georgia’s legislators prepare for the next session, the demand for a living wage will be a central issue. Voters and advocacy groups are hopeful that this overwhelming support for wage increases will translate into meaningful policy changes that address the economic realities faced by millions of Georgians.