Salaries

2 articles

A public sector worker contemplates a city skyline, symbolizing the wage disparity between public service and the private sector.

Services

Public Sector Pay Lags Private Sector Despite Rising US Labor Costs

In Austin, Texas, the average starting salary for a city planner increased by 3% over the last five years.

Marco Alvarez·August 11, 2026

A determined young graduate looking out at the Washington D.C. skyline, symbolizing the city's high ranking for new grads but also the significant cost of living.

Best in City

Washington D.C.: High Rank, High Cost for Recent Grads

Despite its ranking as a top city for new graduates, Washington D.C. presents significant financial hurdles due to high living costs that outpace typical young professional salaries.

Hannah Pierce·April 15, 2026