Housing spiked, wages did not

caliotter3 · Oct 19, 2016

This is common in many areas, not just Seattle. My wages have decreased at least six times (albeit with as many employers), while my rent has increased steadily six times in less than a decade. Employers don't increase wages just because the cost of living goes up. They can get more than a sufficient number of people willing to work for the lower wages.

Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 19, 2016

Happening everywhere. Haven't gotten a cost of living raise since 2008. Problem is, with as many nursing schools we have in the US, we're pimping out new grads faster than jobs are opening up. Want to vote with your feet? Better have another job lined up before you quit or you may be waiting a while.

tokmom, BSN, RN · Oct 24, 2016

Are the hospitals that are decreasing pay, non union hospitals? I only have taken a decrease once but that was years ago. I've been with my new facility for almost 8 years and have only gone up the scale every year.

OP..yes, the housing market in the Seattle area is insane and typical wages don't keep up with housing prices. I know a gal that lives in an 800 foot apartment and pays close to 2k a month. That is crazy!

I know teachers complain of the same thing.

jensfbay, BSN, DNP · May 31, 2017

with the housing market continue to rise at a fast rate, we rn's cannot keep up with the inflation in this area. i have found what worked for me is to work in the bay area part time and get the pay there (plus or minus $100/hour for experienced nurses), and live here. working there for 4 nights is equivalent to me working here for 11 days. it just isn't worth it for me to work here anymore as an RN.

is it wsna? we need some influential and strong advocates here as nurses!