The Union Difference - Even Bigger Among Young Workers

In today's tough economy, younger workers are earning about 10 percent less than their counterparts did in 1979, adjusted for inflation. That means it's more important than ever that they understand how much better they could do if they are part of a union.

A new study from the Center for Economic and Policy Research strongly makes that point. It finds that young, unionized workers, ages 18 to 29, earn, on average, 12.4 percent more than their non-union peers – about $1.75 per hour more. They are also more likely to have health and retirement benefits.

"Unions make a big difference for younger workers," said study author John Schmitt. "There is no economic theory that says young people have to be poorly paid or go without benefits." 

The study, "Unions and Upward Mobility for Young Workers," is available online at www.cepr.net.