How much do you really earn as a minimum wage worker in the United States per month?

Many Brazilians dream of working in the United States, but few understand how the minimum wage works there. Unlike Brazil, which has a single national floor, the US operates a decentralized system where the minimum wage in the United States per month varies drastically depending on the location. The federal minimum is US$ 7.25 per hour since 2009, but states like California, Washington, and the District of Columbia have established floors between US$ 16 and US$ 17.50 per hour. For those considering moving, this regional difference is crucial.

The reality of the American minimum wage by state

The scenario in the US is completely different from what many imagine. While some states maintain the federal floor of US$ 7.25, others have advanced significantly. Check out the highlights:

Higher wages:

• District of Columbia: US$ 17.50/h (the highest in the country)
• Washington: US$ 16.66/h
• California: US$ 16.50/h
• New York: US$ 15.50 to US$ 16.50/h (varies by region)

Lower wages:

• Georgia and Wyoming: US$ 5.15/h (but the federal rate prevails in practice)

This regional variation creates a scenario where the minimum wage in the United States per month can range from US$ 1,160 to US$ 2,800, depending on where you work.

Converting to reais: what is it in practice?

With the dollar exchange rate at approximately R$ 5.20 in 2025, the values take on a different perspective:

Federal floor:

• Hourly: US$ 7.25 ≈ R$ 37.70
• Monthly (40h/week): US$ 1,160 ≈ R$ 6,032

District of Columbia:

• Monthly: US$ 2,800 ≈ R$ 14,560

Although in reais the amount seems attractive, the reality of American living costs makes the comparison more complex.

Comparison: USA vs. Brazil

The minimum wage in the United States per month (federal) is US$ 1,160, while in Brazil the legal floor in 2025 is R$ 1,518. At first glance, these values seem similar, but purchasing power tells a different story.

In the United States, experts consider this amount insufficient to cover basic costs:

• Average rent: US$ 1,626/month
• Living expenses: US$ 1,185/month
• Total needed: approximately US$ 2,811/month

In Brazil, although R$ 1,518 is also considered low in large cities, the relative cost of living is significantly lower compared to American cities of similar size.

Who earns these amounts and how are they calculated?

The minimum wage in the US applies to:

• Workers aged 14 and above
• Hourly employment contracts
• Operational professions (cashiers, store clerks, operators)
• Excluding apprentices, interns, and professionals who receive tips as a main supplement

Calculation of the minimum wage in the United States per month:

The formula is simple, as the American system is based on hours:

• Weekly: US$ 7.25 × 40 hours = US$ 290
• Monthly: US$ 7.25 × 40 × 4 weeks = US$ 1,160

In states with higher floors, like Washington DC, the amount reaches US$ 2,800 per month.

Can you live on minimum wage in the US?

The answer is complex. The federal minimum of US$ 1,160 per month falls short of basic expenses in most states. Even working 40 hours a week, it only partially covers rent and living costs.

States with higher minimum wages, such as California and the District of Columbia, offer better pay, but also have the highest rents in the country — creating a paradox where earning more does not necessarily mean living better.

For Brazilians interested in working in the US, it is essential to research not only the minimum wage of the chosen state but also the regional cost of living before making any decision.