This study investigates the persistent gender pay gap in the United States, focusing on how marital status affects within-job wage disparities in various professional occupations. Utilizing the 2022 microdata sample from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, this analysis controls for educational attainment, age, class of worker, region, and specific occupation to understand the nuanced impact of gender, sector, and marital status on annual incomes. Results indicate that while women have made significant strides in educational attainment, their earnings still lag behind men with similar qualifications. The analysis also reveals that men benefit from a "marriage premium," earning more than their unmarried counterparts, a phenomenon not as prevalent among women. Additionally, occupations with discretionary compensation schemes and wider pay ranges exacerbate these disparities. Regression analyses alongside interaction effects highlight significant wage differences influenced by marital status, sector, and occupational choices. The findings underscore the need for policies addressing both explained and unexplained factors contributing to the gender pay gap. By shedding light on these complexities, this research aims to inform strategies for creating more equitable workplaces, ultimately stimulating economic activity, reducing poverty, and enhancing job satisfaction among professional women.
