New Report Highlights Struggles of California Farmworkers

Low wages and poor living conditions take a toll on health and stability, advocates say

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:11pm

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A minimalist, abstract illustration using bold geometric shapes and primary colors to represent the economic challenges faced by California farmworkers, including low wages, high cost of living, and lack of access to healthcare.A conceptual illustration highlighting the economic struggles of California farmworkers, whose low wages and poor living conditions impact their health and well-being.Santa Barbara Today

A new statewide report details how low wages and substandard living conditions are negatively impacting the health and well-being of farmworkers across California. The report, led by Health in Partnership in collaboration with farmworker organizations, builds on earlier research conducted in Santa Barbara County and reveals that many farmworkers are earning between $15,000 and $23,000 annually, far below what researchers consider a livable income in the region.

Why it matters

The report highlights the connection between wages and health, showing how limited income can make it difficult for farmworkers to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare. Advocates are pushing for a living wage of at least $26 per hour, arguing that higher pay could provide more than just financial relief and change the future for farmworker families.

The details

The report, "Beyond the Cycle of Survival: Wages, Health, and Justice for Farmworkers," found that many farmworkers in Santa Maria are struggling to make ends meet, with the cost of living outpacing their earnings. Alejandra Romero, a farmworker who has picked strawberries for over two decades, said she and her husband work multiple jobs but still can't cover basic expenses like rent, food, and childcare. Other workers, like Amancio de la Cruz, have experienced injuries on the job but often avoid seeking medical care because missing work means losing income.

  • The new report was released on April 10, 2026.

The players

Alejandra Romero

A farmworker who has picked strawberries for more than two decades and is struggling to make ends meet despite working multiple jobs with her husband.

Amancio de la Cruz

A farmworker who harvests vegetables and has experienced injuries on the job but often avoids seeking medical care because missing work means losing income.

Health in Partnership

A research organization that led the new report in collaboration with farmworker organizations across California.

Elana Muldavin

A lead researcher with Health in Partnership who says the connection between wages and health is well established.

Steve Lavagnino

A Santa Barbara County Supervisor who did not respond to a request for comment on the push for a higher local wage.

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What they’re saying

“Este pues supuestamente es de tres recámaras, pero apenas cabe una cama litera cada cuarto y pago 3,000 y aparte ni se da la comida, la gasolina, y la niñera.”

— Alejandra Romero, Farmworker

“Me empieza a doler la espalda… pero tengo que echarle ganas.”

— Alejandra Romero, Farmworker

“Si me lastimo pues tengo que seguir trabajando… porque si paro pues no me van a pagar.”

— Amancio de la Cruz, Farmworker

“We found that current farmworker wages make it very difficult… to afford the things that are necessary for health, including going to the doctor, paying rent, having a roof over your head, getting food.”

— Elana Muldavin, Lead Researcher, Health in Partnership

“Yo quisiera que mis niños tuvieran oportunidad… que puedan tener mejor futuro.”

— Alejandra Romero, Farmworker

What’s next

Advocates say they plan to continue bringing their findings to local leaders in Santa Barbara County as they push for policy changes that would allow farmworkers to earn a living wage.

The takeaway

This report highlights the stark reality that many farmworkers in California are struggling to make ends meet due to low wages and poor living conditions, which can have far-reaching consequences for their health and overall well-being. Advocates are calling for a living wage of at least $26 per hour to help lift these workers and their families out of poverty.