Survey Reveals Average Salary Expectations for New Jobs in the US: Nearly $79,000

Americans' salary expectations for new jobs have reached the highest level since 2014, with the lowest annual wage respondents would accept rising to $78,645. The increase in wages has been most pronounced for respondents over 45, with men desiring an average of $91,048 compared to women's $66,068. The Federal Reserve has been focused on taming wage inflation as part of its fight against overall inflation. However, there is a gap between desired salaries and actual earnings, with the average salary over the past four months being $69,475. The Fed aims for wage increases to be consistent with 2% inflation over time, but wage growth is currently higher. The labor market may be cooling, as job seekers and job-switching likelihood have declined, potentially impacting wage growth.