York County Economic Development Releases Results of 2023 Wage and Benefit Survey
For Immediate Release:
June 29, 2023
York County Economic Development Releases Results of2023 Wage and Benefit Survey
Companies Prioritize Upgraded Benefits to Attract and Retain Employees
YORK COUNTY, SC – York County Economic Development (YCED) announces the release of the results from the 2023 Wage and Benefit Survey. This annual survey, now in its sixth year, provides valuable insights into wages, benefits, and training initiatives across various sectors in York County.
A total of 70 companies responded to this year's survey, representing a workforce of over 13,000 employees in the manufacturing, logistics, and warehouse industries. The data collected offers a comprehensive view of the current employment landscape, including wage information for exempt and non-exempt workers, as well as temporary and contract employment.
Key takeaways from the 2023 survey include the ongoing rise in wages as well as a strategic focus on upgraded benefit packages to attract and retain employees, indicating companies have recognized the importance of offering competitive benefits to meet the evolving needs of their workforce.
One significant trend revealed by the survey is the increasing availability of flexible work arrangements. The percentage of survey respondents offering flextime or hybrid work schedules has risen from 5% in 2018 to 33% in 2023. This shift reflects the growing emphasis on work-life balance and employee autonomy in the workplace. Conversely, remote work is down from 33% to 24%, likely due in part to companies recalling administrative employees back to the office several days a week.
While average entry-level ($17.21 per hour) and unskilled/semi-skilled ($19.71 per hour) wages have increased each by 7% year-over-year, average skilled or technical wages have experienced a slight decrease, currently standing at $22.44 per hour. This wage variation reflects the impact of market demand and the evolving skill requirements in different industries.
To address job vacancies and facilitate the recruitment of qualified candidates, employers have reduced education requirements for certain positions over the past two years. This adjustment aims to expand the talent pool and fill critical roles effectively.
Another notable finding is the decrease in the number of current job openings for production occupations in 2023 compared to the previous year. This decline suggests a more balanced job market and potentially improved employee retention rates.
York County Economic Development remains committed to providing this vital service to local employers. The comprehensive survey, now in its sixth year, continues to evolve to capture detailed workforce training and benefit information, enabling companies to attract and retain top talent.
To access the full report of the 2023 Wage and Benefit Survey, please visit our website.
About York County Economic Development:
York County Economic Development (YCED) is the lead organization responsible for recruiting businesses, retaining and growing existing firms, and promoting and marketing York County, South Carolina. YCED also assists in strategic initiatives across York County that are focused on product development, workforce development, infrastructure improvements and quality of life.
Media Contact:
Caroline Floyd, Marketing Director, Caroline.Floyd@yorkcountygov.com
Data Clarification Questions:
Kelly Reddecliff, Research Manager, Kelly.Reddecliff@yorkcountygov.com
