Workforce Study Blames High Cost of Housing for Oregon Applicant Shortage

Oregon employers are struggling to fill jobs in large part due to the state’s high cost of housing, a new report finds. 

The Oregonian reports that ECONorthwest has completed its third workforce study for the Oregon Workforce, Talent Development Board and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission. The report finds that while employers have increased salaries an average of 17% in an effort to attract applicants, after accounting for higher costs due to inflation, the actual wage increase is closer to 5%. With high housing and gas costs, commuting has become less feasible for potential job seekers in the state. 

Read more at OregonLive.com