re: Is Gen Z etc totally out of touch about salaries?

Benefits are extremely overrated for anyone making under $50k without a degree. You are better off with no paid time off and no benefits and paying that toward the hourly wage. Let them take leave without pay. Seriously.

I worked with a government contractor with 35 employees at a location, the employees had to offer them benefits or the equivalent pay. Literally all 35 took the pay, the GM’s spouse had medical.

Yes, it’s about ‘their best possible paycheck’ and not a work life balance or stable position.