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The US Market for Agricultural Labor: Evidence from the National Agricultural Workers Survey

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  • An Li
  • Jeffrey J. Reimer

Abstract

Recent changes in agricultural labor supply have created renewed interest in the market for farm labor. This study estimates the supply of farm labor using 1989–2016 data from the National Agricultural Workers Survey. In the preferred specification a $1 rise in wage is associated with workers supplying 0.538 more hours, all else held constant. This estimate masks changes in this relationship over time, however, as workers responded positively to wages before 2001, and reversed this relationship after 2001. Other results highlight the role of illegality, education, experience, gender, and other characteristics with respect to labor supply.

Suggested Citation

  • An Li & Jeffrey J. Reimer, 2021. "The US Market for Agricultural Labor: Evidence from the National Agricultural Workers Survey," Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 43(3), pages 1125-1139, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:apecpp:v:43:y:2021:i:3:p:1125-1139
    DOI: 10.1002/aepp.13054
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Wang, Sun Ling & Loduca, Natalie, 2023. "The changing values of the U.S. farm workers’ legal status and labor quality in the U.S. farm workforce," 2024 Allied Social Sciences Association (ASSA) Annual Meeting, January 5-7, 2024, San Antonio, Texas 339078, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.

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