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.
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.
State table (mobile-friendly)
| State | Home Health / Aides |
Food Prep / Serving |
Janitors / Cleaners |
Housekeeping | YoY range |
|---|
Explore Our Employment-Based Immigration Pathways
Quick internal navigation to key EB categories and the L-1 track.
Related immigration pathways
These pages help compare the legal options connected with this topic and continue research on the most relevant U.S. immigration routes.
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EB-3 green card route
For employer-sponsored skilled workers, professionals and other workers.
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PERM labor certification
For wage planning, recruitment and labor certification before many EB-2 and EB-3 petitions.
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ETA-9089 for PERM
The core Department of Labor form used in PERM labor certification.
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employment-based green card options
Compare EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, NIW, PERM, I-140 and final green card planning in one employment-based framework.
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I-140 after PERM approval
The USCIS petition stage after PERM approval or for other employment-based routes.
