The Short Version

NOTE: These are the abbreviated instructions. They’re intended for people who are familiar with using this data, or someone who’s already used this site once and needs a reminder for looking up additional jobs. If it’s your first time using this website, it’s highly recommended that you follow the more detailed instructions using Step 1 and Step 2, which also have additional useful information. You can also watch the basic instructional video here. 

There are two simple steps to finding out what you’re worth to an employer:

Step 1. Find the SOC code for your job
Step 2. Look up your SOC code in the BLS wage data

If you’re familiar with using this data or you’ve already used this site once, this should be all you need

Step 1. Find the SOC code for your job 

Go to the O*NET Code Connector website and search for your job title. The database will return results for the best matching SOC codes. By reading the position tasks and activities you can determine which one may be the best match for you. Copy or write down your SOC code. Use only the first 6 characters (For example, use 21-1022 and not 21-1022.00.) If you use the “copy” feature on your device, you can “paste” it into the BLS website below. For additional details and tips, see Step 1. 

Step 2. Look up your SOC code in the BLS wage data for your state

After you get your SOC code, go to the BLS website and select your state. Scroll down to the top of the SOC code table and enter or paste your SOC code in the box just above the table where it says “Text search table.” The average rate of hourly and annual pay for your job will be displayed as soon as you finish entering your code. For additional details, see Step 2.