22 States Raise Minimum Wage in 2026; Highest Local Rates Exceed $20 per Hour
As of August 2026, 22 states plus Washington, D.C., and 66 cities and counties have increased minimum wages, with some jurisdictions now exceeding $20 per hour. Six states crossed the $15 threshold for the first time.
Widespread Minimum Wage Growth Across US
22 states plus Washington, D.C. are raising minimum wages at some point in 2026 — 19 on January 1, and Alaska, Nevada, Oregon, and Florida later in the year. Including cities and counties, a total of 88 jurisdictions are increasing wages in 2026. For the first time in U.S. history, more workers now live in a state with a $15+ minimum wage than in a state stuck at the $7.25 federal floor a milestone driven by states like Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Missouri, and Nebraska crossing the $15 threshold in 2026.
Highest Rates by Region
Washington State holds the highest statewide minimum wage at $17.13/hour, while Washington, D.C. leads all jurisdictions nationally at $17.95/hour. Within cities, the range is even wider: In San Jose, the minimum wage will rise to $18.45 per hour, above the statewide rate of $16.90. West Hollywood's will rise to $20.25 and San Diego's to $17.75. Washington, D.C. raised its rate from $17.95 to $18.40 on July 1, 2026 — keeping the District's minimum wage the highest of any US jurisdiction.
For Expats and Job Seekers
Foreigners seeking employment in the US should note that regional wage floors vary dramatically. If relocating for a lower-wage job (retail, hospitality, food service), aim for high-wage jurisdictions like California, Washington, D.C., or Colorado where living costs align with higher mandated wages. Conversely, if your employer is in a low-wage state still stuck at $7.25 (mainly the South), negotiate accordingly, as your salary may not increase without state law forcing it.
Sources
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