Teen employment has surged as businesses raise wages and offer additional perks to attract young workers. The average hourly wage for newly hired teens reached $15.68 in June 2024, a 36% increase since 2019. This rise outpaces the wage growth for all age groups, with teens benefiting from added incentives like gym access, tuition reimbursement, and mental health support. Companies like Chipotle and small businesses are enhancing benefits to retain young employees. Despite higher wages, teens are saving for education and other expenses, reflecting a balance between earnings and rising living costs.
See "‘The summer job is back’: Teens enter the labor force as employers dish out higher wages, perks", Alex Harring, CNBC, August 5, 2024