1930s (Great Depression Era)
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Average hourly wage: $0.50–$1.00 per hour
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Annual salary: $1,000–$2,000
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The Great Depression led to widespread layoffs and wage reductions. Automakers like Ford and GM had to cut production significantly.
1940s (WWII & Post-War Boom)
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Average hourly wage: $1.00–$1.50
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Annual salary: $2,000–$3,000
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Wartime production boosted manufacturing jobs, and wages increased due to high demand for labor.
1950s–1960s (Golden Age of Automobiles)
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Average hourly wage: $2.00–$3.50
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Annual salary: $4,000–$7,000
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Strong unions like the UAW (United Auto Workers) secured better wages, benefits, and job security.
1970s–1980s (Oil Crisis & Recession)
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Average hourly wage: $5.00–$12.00
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Annual salary: $10,000–$25,000
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The 1973 oil crisis and increased competition from Japanese automakers led to industry downturns and layoffs.
1990s–2000s (Globalization & Automation)
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Average hourly wage: $15.00–$25.00
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Annual salary: $30,000–$50,000
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NAFTA and outsourcing impacted U.S. jobs, but wages remained strong for unionized workers.
2010s–2020s (Tech Advancements & EV Revolution)
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Average hourly wage: $20.00–$35.00
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Annual salary: $40,000–$70,000+
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The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and automation changed job roles, but union negotiations continued to support wage growth.
2024–2025 (Post-Pandemic & UAW Strikes Impact)
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Average hourly wage: $25.00–$45.00
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Annual salary: $50,000–$90,000+ (depending on seniority and overtime)
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Recent UAW strikes resulted in significant pay increases, with top-tier workers seeing wages surpass $40 per hour at companies like Ford, GM, and Stellantis.
