Factors Associated with Wage Expectations Among Macao Youths When Considering Emigration to the Mainland of China

This study examines the factors associated with wage expectations among Macao youth in the context of potential emigration to mainland China. Using survey data, logistic regression analyses were employed to identify associations between individual characteristics and wage expectations. The findings show that permanent residents of Macao are more likely to expect a monthly wage of MOP 17,000 or above compared to non-permanent residents (OR: 2.641). Employed youth also exhibit higher wage expectations (OR: 4.677) than unemployed individuals and students. These results suggest that residency status and employment experience are important factors associated with wage expectations among Macao youth considering migration to mainland China. These insights may inform the development of migration-related policies and initiatives aimed at better aligning wage expectations with actual opportunities in mainland China.