Benton and Washington counties in Northwest Arkansas are making headlines with remarkable wage growth, securing their places among the top 5 counties in the nation for average weekly wage percentage gains in the fourth quarter of 2024. This is indicative not just of regional economic trends, but also of a vibrant labor market that stands out in comparison to national averages. The overarching statistic is compelling: average weekly wages across Arkansas have surged by nearly 6% in this quarter alone, reflecting positive upswings across several sectors.
The latest data drawn from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages report highlights that only three counties in Arkansas—Benton, Pulaski, and Washington—are featured on the list of the 369 largest counties by population. This distinction emphasizes the economic importance of these regions in the state’s broader employment landscape. Each of these counties demonstrated unique growth patterns, contributing to Arkansas’s overall impressive wage increase.
A noteworthy point from the report released on June 4 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is that an overwhelming 357 out of the 369 largest counties experienced year-over-year increases in average weekly wages. Nationally, the average wage climbed to $1,507, marking a 5% rise compared to the previous year. This collective growth across many regions reveals a resilient economy that is rebounding and expanding.
Santa Clara, California, led the pack with the highest wage gain of 15% in the fourth quarter. Notably, Washington County shares the spotlight, ranking second in wage growth tied with King County in Washington. Benton County is not far behind, securing the fourth spot, while Ada County in Idaho rounds out the top five. These rankings illustrate an impressive performance from Northwest Arkansas, particularly as it competes with much larger urban areas for wage growth.
In the preceding quarter, Benton County had already marked its territory with a staggering 15.5% growth, reinforcing its momentum in attracting businesses and talent. The economic health of this area is bolstered by a thriving job market and innovative businesses that contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region.
Wage Statistics Across Arkansas Counties
Let’s take a closer look at the specific statistics regarding establishments and wages in the three Arkansas counties that stand out:
- Arkansas (Statewide):
Establishments: 106,100
Fourth-quarter 2024 average weekly wage: $1,153
Percentage increase from 2023: 5.9% - Benton County:
Establishments: 8,700
Fourth-quarter 2024 average weekly wage: $1,491
Percentage increase from 2023: 12.9%
Percentage growth rank among 369 counties: 4 - Pulaski County:
Establishments: 14,500
Fourth-quarter 2024 average weekly wage: $1,257
Percentage increase from 2023: 2.4%
Percentage growth rank among 369 counties: 327 - Washington County:
Establishments: 7,200
Fourth-quarter 2024 average weekly wage: $1,275
Percentage increase from 2023: 13.2%
Percentage growth rank among 369 counties: 2
What’s particularly striking is that Arkansas led its contiguous states with a substantial 5.9% increase in average weekly wages, making it a model of economic growth in the region. In comparison, Tennessee reported a 5% growth, while Texas recorded a 4.3% rise. Other neighboring states like Oklahoma and Mississippi both saw a 4.1% increase, highlighting Arkansas’s leadership in wage growth among its peers.
National Perspective on Wage Growth
When we expand our view beyond Arkansas, the fourth quarter of 2024 revealed notable performers across the country in terms of wage gains. The top five states for percentage gain were:
- Wyoming: 12.4%
- Washington: 8.7%
- Idaho: 8.3%
- Oregon: 6.6%
- California: 6.5%
Such statistics open up discussions about the broader economic context, workforce trends, and opportunities for growth across various sectors.
As we witness these remarkable shifts in wage dynamics in Arkansas, particularly in Benton and Washington counties, it sets the stage for ongoing developments in business and labor market strategies that will shape the future of work in the area.
