local
Raising the minimum wage helps some workers, but economists warn it could hurt others
By Stephanie Liebergen at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· June 25, 2026
· 2 min read
The price of everyday life keeps climbing and more states are raising the minimum wage to help workers keep up. But economists say how high it goes could make the difference between more opportunity or fewer jobs.Nineteen states raised the minimum wage on Jan. 1 this year, and three more will se...
Key takeaway 1 this year, and three more will see increases in the coming months.
Why this matters in The Waco
In Waco , the debate over minimum wage hikes takes on a unique flavor, given the city's mix of industries and cost of living. As housing costs rise, with some areas experiencing rent hikes of 50% over the past five years, the need for a livable wage becomes increasingly pressing. However, economists' warnings about the potential for automation and unemployment if the wage is raised too high must be carefully considered in a local context where small businesses and restaurants are a significant part of the economy. The concept of a "living wage" varies widely depending on factors like location and life stage, and Waco's relatively lower cost of living compared to other parts of the country must be taken into account when determining an appropriate minimum wage. As the city navigates this complex issue, it will be crucial to balance the needs of workers with the potential impact on local businesses and job markets.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 25, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The price of everyday life keeps climbing and more states are raising the minimum wage to help workers keep up. But economists say how high it goes could make the difference between more opportunity or fewer jobs.Nineteen states raised the minimum wage on Jan. 1 this year, and three more will se...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 25, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Stephanie Liebergen at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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