The living wage in 2023 varies based on the cost of living and taxes where families live. According to the Living Wage Calculator developed by MIT, the living wage in the United States is $25.02 per hour, or $104,077.70 per year before taxes for a family of four (two working adults, two children) . However, the living wage varies by state and county. For example, the living wage in Texas for an individual in a household must earn to support his or herself and their family is $16.79 per hour. In North Carolina, the livable wage is $17.14 per hour. The living wage is the hourly rate of pay that enables an individual or family to meet their basic needs, such as housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and other essential expenses. Establishing a living wage and an approximate income needed to meet a family’s basic needs would enable the working poor to achieve financial independence while maintaining housing and food security.