FloridaS booming Economy Doesn’t Translate to Higher Pay for State Workers, Data Shows
TALLAHASSEE, FL – Despite ranking among the nation’s economic leaders, Florida state workers are significantly underpaid compared to their counterparts in neighboring states, according to a recent analysis. A legislator indicated she intends to address the disparity during the 2026 legislative session, saying, “The State of Florida should do the same,” when asked about pursuing a state pay raise.
Florida boasts the fourth-largest economy in the U.S.as measured by gross domestic product and ranks fifth in per capita income. However, states with smaller economies and lower average incomes are paying their state employees more. This gap raises concerns about Florida’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, potentially impacting essential public services.
The data, compiled from ZipRecruiter and the U.S. Department of Commerce, reveals a stark contrast. Georgia, with an economy half the size of Florida’s, offers state workers an average of 13% more in pay. alabama, whose economy is one-quarter Florida’s size, pays 21% more. Both states rank in the bottom 10 nationally for per capita income, while Florida sits at 21st.
Even Mississippi, last in the nation in per capita income, compensates its state employees 26% higher than florida. The U.S. Department of Commerce data shows Florida’s per capita income is significantly lower than many states offering higher state worker salaries.
The issue is expected to be a key topic during the 2026 legislative session, as lawmakers consider proposals to address the pay disparity and ensure Florida can compete for talent in the public sector.
James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com. Follow on him Twitter: @CallTallahassee.
