A new study shows that Yakima workers earn almost 15 percent less than the national average.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average worker in the Yakima area earns $18.89 an hour. That's 14 percent below the U.S. Average, which is around $22 an hour.

For many people living in Yakima this does not come as a shock. They said you do not have to look far to see the faces of homelessness or poverty-stricken neighborhoods.

"That's what I have been hearing and I just do not agree, I think that they should be paid more," said Sharon Cooley. "I mean, they are hard workers too."

"The Valley is kind of a little hole," said Tina LeBouef. "It is kind of a little depressed area. It is not surprising at all."

According to the labor statistics, managements jobs in Yakima are the highest paid at over $45 an hour. Followed by people working in health care and technical positions.

The data also shows that office and administrative support jobs make up the largest share of local employment at almost 15 percent.

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