Tripling US union membership would shift $1.2tn to workers annually – report

A New Report Highlights the Potential Impact of Strengthened Union Membership on US Workers. According to a recent study published by the Economic Policy Institute, a significant increase in union membership in the US could lead to substantial gains for the median worker. The report suggests that tripling union membership in the country would result in a 14.5% raise for the median US worker, translating to a substantial shift of $1.2 trillion to workers annually.

The study emphasizes the correlation between union density and economic inequality. Historically, the US has seen a decline in union membership rates, from over 30% in the 1950s to a mere 10% in 2025. This decline has been accompanied by surges in wealth inequality. Conversely, the report notes that higher union density has been linked to narrower racial pay gaps. In contrast to the current situation, a more densely unionized workforce would likely lead to greater economic equality and reduced disparities in wages between different racial groups.

The findings of the report underscore the potential benefits of strengthened union membership for US workers. By reversing the decline in union density and promoting greater collective bargaining power, policymakers may be able to address issues of income inequality and promote more equitable economic growth.