Feeling underpaid at work? Here's how to navigate salary frustration in 2025.

Many American workers still feel they’re not paid what they’re worth, despite modest improvements in compensation trends in 2025. According to new data from HR tech company Energage, just 69% of employees feel their pay is fair — making pay one of the least satisfying parts of the workplace experience.

What’s behind the frustration? Economic pressures like inflation and rising costs are eroding perceived gains. “Salaries aren’t keeping up with inflation,” says Sam DeMase, a career expert at ZipRecruiter. “While workers may feel like they’re earning more due to pay increases, their purchasing power remains stagnant.” READ MORE