Figures released by the Office of National Statistics show that West Devon and Torridge workers earn the second lowest wage in the country, only £9 higher than the lowest, say the Liberal Democrats.
The party's prospective parliamentary candidate, Adam Symons, says the data, which ranks the 643 constituencies in England, Wales and Scotland in terms of annual pay for all jobs, puts West Devon and Torridge as number 642. Only Berwick-upon-Tweed in Scotland, is lower, by £9.
West Devon and Torridge employees earn an average £16,025 per year, almost £10,000 lower than the national average of £26,020.
Male employees earn over £12,000 less than their fellow average Britons, and female employees over £6,000 less.
Mr Symons said: 'The figures say it all – our workers are pounds from being the lowest earners. We are the area with the lowest wages in the whole country, and we are not improving.
'I don't think this problem is going to be dealt with overnight. We really need to invest in the skills of our young people, and give them the aspirations to set up businesses, and add to the economy of our area. The significant investment into Tavistock College and sports facilities will help. We need to invest in training specifically suited to the economic needs and profile of our area. I have a great deal of optimism, so let us play to our strengths!'