The State of Homecare Work in Oregon

The Need to Invest in Raising Wages and Strengthening Labor Standards

Written by Lina Stepick, Ph.D.

Homecare is among the fastest-growing occupations in Oregon, yet the industry faces a troubling imbalance. As demand surges, wages for nonunion private agency homecare workers remain stagnant. Clients pay a median of $4,957 per month for services, while the workers providing that care earn a median monthly wage of just $1,350.
Despite being historically undervalued, homecare workers demonstrate exceptional skill and unwavering commitment. This report presents the need to raise wages and strengthen labor standards to attract and retain the qualified workforce essential to meeting Oregon’s growing care needs.

Be sure to read the follow-up study, Essential Yet Invisible: Oregon Homecare Workers and Covid-19.