What tips should I keep in mind?

Check actual prevailing wages at flcdatacenter.com for your specific SOC code and area. Higher wage levels strengthen your H-1B petition. Actual wages must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the entire H-1B period.

H-1B Wage Level Calculator

Determine your H-1B wage level and prevailing wage based on occupation, location, and experience.

Occupation Category(General occupation type)

Metro Area Cost Level(Cost of living in your work location)

Years of Experience(Relevant professional experience)

Offered Salary ($)(Your actual or expected annual salary)

Results

Visualization

How It Works

H-1B employers must pay at least the prevailing wage for the occupation and location. The Department of Labor defines four wage levels based on experience and skill: Level 1 (entry), Level 2 (qualified), Level 3 (experienced), Level 4 (fully competent). Paying below prevailing wage can result in petition denial.

The Formula

Prevailing Wage = Base Occupation Wage x Location Cost Multiplier
Wage Level based on years of experience (1=entry, 2=qualified, 3=experienced, 4=expert)

Variables

Level 1 — 17th percentile wage (entry-level, 0-1 years experience)
Level 2 — 34th percentile wage (qualified, 2-3 years)
Level 3 — 50th percentile wage (experienced, 4-7 years)
Level 4 — 67th percentile wage (expert, 8+ years)

Example

A software developer with 3 years experience in a medium-cost city: Level 2 prevailing wage ~$95,000. If offered $95,000 or more, the LCA meets the wage requirement.

Tips

Check actual prevailing wages at flcdatacenter.com for your specific SOC code and area.
Higher wage levels strengthen your H-1B petition.
Actual wages must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the entire H-1B period.
USCIS may challenge Level 1 wages for positions requiring significant experience.
Consider requesting a prevailing wage determination from DOL for accuracy.