Updated: 16 Oct 2025
Benchmarks are annual, state-level aggregates for typical EB-3 service roles. Use together with the dashboard and state table.
Executive summary — how to read and apply the numbers
This section explains what the prevailing wage benchmarks represent and how employers/applicants can use them to plan EB-3 PERM cases. Values provide a comparable cross-state view for four widely used service roles (Home Health/Personal Care Aides, Food Preparation/Serving, Janitors/Cleaners, Housekeeping). Final case planning should verify the MSA and the duty list for the position.
1) Scope
Figures reflect state-level averages that approximate Level-2/Level-3 ranges for common EB-3 service roles. They are intended for high-level budgeting and state selection.
2) What moves the wage
- Local market tightness (tourism, logistics, healthcare demand)
- MSA cost differentials inside the same state
- Required skill mix (experience, language, shift work)
3) Practical use
- Compare states for budget feasibility before drafting the job order
- Check at least two MSAs within the target state
- Model shift/overnight differentials when relevant
Methodology at a glance
- Role mapping: The four service roles align with the occupational families most frequently observed in EB-3 service filings.
- Aggregation: For cross-state comparability, values are averaged at the state level; metro-level dispersion can be materially higher.
- Direction of change: 2025 shows moderate upward pressure, steeper on the coasts and tourist hubs.
- Data hygiene: Rounded to nearest hundred to avoid false precision in planning discussions.
Reminder: PERM requires the offered wage to be at least the prevailing wage. If the duty list or business need justifies a higher level, expect the benchmark to rise accordingly.
Checklist before filing
- Confirm the exact MSA and business location used for PWD
- Audit duties vs. level to avoid RFEs and delays
- Account for seasonal peaks (hospitality/food service) when planning recruitment
- Document the rationale for the chosen level and location; capture dated exports/screens
Interactive dashboard: state comparisons
Select a role to view average regional benchmarks across the U.S. and the TOP-5 / LOW-5 states by annual prevailing wage.
Region snapshot (state averages inside each region)
TOP-5 states by wage
LOW-5 states by wage
State table (mobile-friendly)
| State | Home Health / Aides |
Food Prep / Serving |
Janitors / Cleaners |
Housekeeping | YoY range |
|---|
