Starting with a reliable living wage reference point
Before measuring a wage gap, companies need a solid reference point: a living wage estimate that is credible, methodologically sound, and recognised across the supply chain. We have several tools and resources to support you in identifying a living wage estimate that is credible and fit for purpose.
Living wage estimate recognition process
To ensure confidence across supply chain partners and worker representatives, wage gap measurement must be grounded in a credible estimate. The Roadmap on Living Wages provides a consistent way to identify estimates that meet high standards of quality and robustness, using twelve criteria to evaluate methodological soundness rather than the wage figure itself. This helps companies navigate available estimates with clarity and confidence, regardless of which methodology they choose.
Learn more about our twelve criteria (Spanish version) and access additional guidance on Criterion 12 – Quality Assurance.
Interested in applying for recognition? Click here to find information about our independent recognition process.
Living wage estimates finder
Recognised living wage estimates
Here you can find the recognised estimate methodologies along with a summary of their assessment against the twelve recognition criteria.
Read our complete recognition process description.
The key thing is just to get started . . . Choose a benchmark and stick to it — it may not be perfectly stable all the time, but consistency matters.