H1b Salary Database Calculator
Check if your H1B salary meets prevailing wage requirements by job code and location. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Reviewed by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist
Formula
Prevailing Wage = Base Salary x Level Multiplier x State Index x Metro Multiplier
The prevailing wage is calculated by applying the DOL wage level multiplier (Level I-IV), the state cost index, and the metropolitan area multiplier to the base salary for the occupation.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Software Developer in San Francisco
Problem:A software developer (SOC 15-1256) is offered $120,000 base salary in San Francisco at Level II. Metro multiplier is 1.35 with 4 years of experience. Does the salary meet the prevailing wage?
Solution:Prevailing wage = $120,000 x 1.0 (Level II) x 1.0 (state) x 1.35 (metro) = $162,000\nExperience-adjusted salary = $120,000 x (1 + 4 x 0.025) = $132,000\nDifference = $132,000 - $162,000 = -$30,000\nThe offered salary does NOT meet the prevailing wage.
Result:Salary Shortfall: -$30,000. Employer must raise offer to at least $162,000.
Example 2: Data Analyst in Austin, TX
Problem:A data analyst is offered $85,000 in Austin at Level I. Metro multiplier is 1.05 with 2 years of experience.
Solution:Prevailing wage = $85,000 x 0.83 (Level I) x 1.0 (state) x 1.05 (metro) = $74,066\nExperience-adjusted salary = $85,000 x (1 + 2 x 0.025) = $89,250\nDifference = $89,250 - $74,066 = $15,184\nThe salary meets the prevailing wage requirement.
Result:Salary Surplus: +$15,184. The offer exceeds prevailing wage by 20.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my H1B salary does not meet the prevailing wage?
If your offered salary falls below the prevailing wage for your job classification and location, the employer must either increase the salary to meet or exceed the prevailing wage, reclassify the position to a lower wage level with appropriately adjusted job duties, or find another location where the prevailing wage is lower. Employers who fail to pay the prevailing wage face serious consequences including back-pay obligations, civil monetary penalties of up to $35,000 per violation, debarment from the H1B program for up to three years, and potential criminal prosecution for willful violations. Employees can file complaints with the DOL Wage and Hour Division.
Can H1B workers negotiate salary above the prevailing wage requirement?
Yes, H1B workers can and should negotiate salaries above the prevailing wage minimum. The prevailing wage is a floor, not a ceiling. Many tech companies pay well above prevailing wages, especially at Level I and Level II classifications. Negotiation leverage depends on factors like specialized skills, competing offers, market demand for the role, and the employer sponsorship investment. Workers should research comparable salaries on platforms like Glassdoor and Levels.fyi in addition to the DOL prevailing wage database. Having competing offers or demonstrating unique expertise can help justify higher compensation. Remember that total compensation includes base salary, bonuses, stock options, and benefits.
References
Reviewed by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist · Editorial policy