Key Facts
• On October 9, Niigata City Personnel Commission recommended raising city employee salaries.
• April 2025 data shows city employees earn ¥10,611 less monthly than private sector.
• Commission proposed a 3% average salary increase and significant starting salary hike.
• This marks the fourth consecutive year of salary increase recommendations.
• Commission cited concerns over difficulty in attracting skilled personnel due to low pay.
• Niigata City Mayor Yaichi Nakahara pledged to consider the recommendation alongside city finances.
Summary
The Niigata City Personnel Commission has recommended a salary increase for city employees, citing a significant pay gap with the private sector. As of April 2025, city employees earn ¥10,611 less per month on average. To address this, the commission proposed a 3% salary increase and a substantial hike in starting salaries to enhance competitiveness and attract skilled personnel. This marks the fourth consecutive year such a recommendation has been made. Mayor Yaichi Nakahara acknowledged the importance of the recommendation and stated that it would be reviewed in light of the city’s financial situation and comparisons with other ordinance-designated cities.
