2026 Minimum Wage Increases by State: Full List Revealed
In 2026, a significant number of states are set to increase their minimum wages, aimed at assisting workers facing financial challenges. According to a recent report by the National Employment Law Project (NELP), 88 jurisdictions will raise their minimum pay. This includes 22 states and 66 cities and counties. Many of these locations will see their wage floor hit or exceed $15.00 per hour.
Minimum Wage Increases Effective January 1, 2026
The majority of wage increases took effect on January 1, 2026. Notable changes include:
- Arizona: $15.15
- California: $16.90
- Colorado: $15.16
- Connecticut: $16.94
- Hawaii: $16.00
- Maine: $15.10
- Michigan: $13.73
- Minnesota: $11.41
- Missouri: $15.00
- Montana: $10.85
- Nebraska: $15.00
- New Jersey: $15.92
- New York: $17.00 (New York City, Long Island, Westchester); $16.00 (rest of state)
- Ohio: $11.00
- Rhode Island: $16.00
- South Dakota: $11.85
- Vermont: $14.42
- Virginia: $12.77
- Washington State: $17.13
Future Minimum Wage Increases in 2026
Some states are expected to implement minimum wage increases later in 2026. These include:
- Alaska: $14.00
- Florida: $15.00
- Oregon: Between $14.05 and $16.30, depending on the specific location
States Keeping Current Minimum Wages in 2026
Some states have a minimum wage above $7.25 but will not raise their rates in 2026, including:
- Arkansas: $11.00
- Delaware: $15.00
- Illinois: $15.00
- Maryland: $15.00
- Massachusetts: $15.00
- Nevada: $12.00
- New Mexico: $12.00
- West Virginia: $8.75
The remaining states maintain a minimum wage of $7.25. Additionally, Georgia and Wyoming’s minimum is set at $5.15, which is overridden by the federal minimum wage.
Current Federal Minimum Wage
The federal minimum wage has remained unchanged at $7.25 since 2009. This lack of increase, amid ongoing inflation, has led many states to pursue local adjustments to assist their workforce.
This progressive approach is seen as essential in combatting inflation and providing relief to hard-hit American workers as they navigate living costs.
