A new labor market and economic impact analysis from This Land Research and Communications Collaborative, produced by Scioto Analysis, finds that raising Oklahoma’s minimum wage to $15 would substantially increase earnings for working families, reduce low-wage employment across the state, close long-standing wage gaps, and generate more than $1.1 billion in annual economic growth.
“The analysis shows that a $15 minimum wage would meaningfully improve earnings for workers across Oklahoma while strengthening the state’s overall economy,” Rob Moore, Principal for Scioto Analysis said, “These findings make clear that raising the minimum wage is an effective tool for reducing low-wage employment, boosting household income, and improving struggling labor markets in rural and urban areas.”
The report provides one of the most comprehensive looks to date at how a higher minimum wage would affect Oklahoma workers, businesses, and urban and rural communities alike.
Key Findings from the Report
- A $15 Wage Boosts Earnings Significantly
Workers directly affected by the policy would see a 25% increase in weekly earnings, with the average impacted worker gaining $100 more per week—or roughly $4,200 more per year. This additional income would help Oklahoma families keep pace with rising costs and strengthen long-term economic security.
- Oklahoma’s Wage Gap with the Nation Narrows
Oklahoma workers currently earn 25% less than the average U.S. worker, even after accounting for cost-of-living differences. A $15 minimum wage would cut that gap nearly in half, giving Oklahomans a more competitive wage relative to the rest of the country.
- Low-Wage Work Drops Sharply
The share of Oklahomans in low-wage jobs would fall by 29%, with more than 100,000 workers rising above low-wage status. This shift would lead to stronger households, reduced economic volatility, and greater workforce stability for employers.
- Oklahoma’s Economy Grows by Over $1 Billion
Higher earnings and increased spending would boost the state’s GDP by $1.1 billion annually, the report finds. Additionally, employers would benefit from an estimated $880 million in productivity gains, driven by lower turnover and higher worker retention.
- Rural–Urban Wage Gaps Shrink
Wage disparities across counties would narrow substantially under a $15 wage. For many counties, especially in rural Oklahoma, the gains would be as large—or even larger—than those seen in urban centers. This means raising the minimum wage is not only an urban issue—it is a statewide economic opportunity.
About the Report
The analysis uses labor market simulation models, demographic data, and regional economic forecasting to estimate how raising the minimum wage would affect earnings, employment distribution, productivity, consumer spending, and GDP growth in Oklahoma.
This Land Research and Communications Collaborative commissioned the report to provide policymakers, community leaders, and voters with reliable data on the economic implications of a higher minimum wage.
About This Land Research and Communications Collaborative
This Land is a nonpartisan research and communications organization committed to elevating the voices and experiences of everyday Oklahomans. We provide data-driven insights, narrative research, and strategic communications to support policies that strengthen families, communities, and local economies to ensure an Oklahoma that works for everyone.
The full report, Minimum Wages and The Labor Market in Oklahoma, is available here.
