Real earnings in America

This report presents estimates of real earnings (i.e., earnings adjusted for inflation) from 1947 to 1985. While average real earnings increased by 60.6 percent between 1947 and 1972, average real earnings decreased by 13.5 percent between 1972 and 1985. This report also presents estimates of real spendable earnings (i.e., earnings adjusted for inflation, Federal tax payments, and social security contributions) and the changes in these earnings.,Abstract -- Introduction and Major Findings -- Real Earnings -- Real Spendable Earnings -- A Long Run View -- Appendix: Estimates.,Richard S. Belous, Analyst in Labor Economics, Economics Division.,CRS 86-615 E,"April 15, 1986.",SuDoc# 14. 18/3