It Takes Three Full-Time Jobs Just to Get By in California
What does it really take to afford a decent life in California? According to a new study from United Ways of California, the answer is sobering: the equivalent of three full-time minimum wage jobs.
The Real Cost Measure 2025 shows that 35% of California households—3.8 million in total—struggle to afford the basics like housing, food, transportation, child care, health care, and taxes. Unlike the outdated federal poverty level, this measure gives a more accurate picture of what families actually need to survive and thrive in our state.
Working Full Time—and Still Falling Short
“Even with positive signs like rising minimum wages and low unemployment, too many Californians are still falling behind. If we want families to succeed, we must invest in policies that support working people—things like expanded tax credits, better access to support programs, and stronger renter protections.”
—Pete Manzo, President and CEO of United Ways of California.
One of the most powerful findings? 97% of households living below the Real Cost Measure have at least one working adult. In other words, this isn’t about laziness—it’s about an economy where even full-time work often isn’t enough.
San Luis Obispo County: A Local Look
Here in San Luis Obispo County, the numbers are just as alarming. Nearly 1 in 3 households (31%) can’t afford a basic standard of living. For Latino families, the situation is even more dire: 48% fall below the Real Cost Measure, compared to 28% of white households.
“We see this struggle every day. People working multiple jobs still can’t afford child care, rent, or a doctor’s visit. Families are forced to make impossible choices—and it’s simply not sustainable.”
—Elizabeth Summer, Executive Director of United Way of San Luis Obispo County.
The Cost of Real Life in SLO County
Here are some sample budgets to put things in perspective:
- A family of four (2 adults, 1 preschooler, 1 school-aged child) in SLO County needs $107,098 a year to meet basic needs. But the median income is just $94,713—leaving a $12,385 gap.
- For a household with 2 adults, 1 infant, and 1 preschooler, the gap is even larger: they need $112,139, but typically earn only $98,312.
- Even childless couples face steep costs: it takes $61,271 to cover the basics for two adults. Add two kids, and the required income jumps nearly 50%.
Statewide Trends Mirror Local Realities
Across California, the situation is particularly severe for families with young children: more than half (54%) of those with kids under six fall below the Real Cost Measure. Racial disparities also persist, with 51% of Latino and 43% of Black households struggling, compared to 30% of Asian-American and 23% of white households.
Education remains a critical factor: 69% of households led by someone without a high school diploma fall below the Real Cost Measure, compared to just 18% of those led by someone with a bachelor’s degree.
Why This Matters Now
This new data comes at a crucial time: just ahead of California’s May Budget Revision, when state leaders will be making major decisions about programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, housing supports, and tax credits. These are lifelines for families on the edge—and this report shows how urgently they’re needed.
See the Data for Yourself
The Real Cost Measure 2025 report includes data for all 58 counties in California, plus interactive maps and budget calculators so you can see what it takes to get by in your own community. Explore the full study at unitedwaysca.org/realcost.
About United Ways of California:
United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. In partnership with local United Ways across the state, they advocate for policies and programs that improve health, education, and financial stability for all Californians. Learn more at unitedwaysca.org.