22 U.S. States Raise Minimum Wage in 2026; Washington Leads at $17.13/hr
Twenty-two states are increasing minimum wages in 2026, with 19 states raising rates on January 1, Alaska and Oregon on July 1, and Florida on September 30. The changes will lift pay for 8.3 million workers.
Staggered Increases Across 2026
Nearly 20 U.S. states are set to raise their minimum wage in 2026, with 19 states raising rates on January 1, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Alaska (July 1, 2026) and Florida (September 30, 2026) are set to increase further later in the year, and Washington D.C. adjusts annually on July 1.
Economic Impact and New Records
The pay increases will affect about 8.3 million workers, who will gain a combined $5 billion over the course of 2026. Beginning this year, the number of workers living in a state that guarantees a $15 minimum wage will exceed the number living in a state that offers the federal wage floor of $7.25 per hour. Washington has the highest statewide rate at $17.13 per hour. The federal minimum wage has remained frozen at $7.25 per hour since July 24, 2009, marking the longest stretch in law history without an update.
What This Means for Foreign Workers
If you are working as an hourly wage earner or small-business employee in one of these 22 states, your minimum pay floor is rising—often substantially. However, be aware that some states do not allow a lower tipped wage, while others adhere to the federal tipped rate of $2.13 per hour, and always confirm with the Department of Labor and your local labor laws for the most up-to-date information, as local minimum rates may change, and minimum wages in certain cities might exceed the statewide base. This is especially important if you work in hospitality, retail, or food service. Some localities (e.g. San Francisco, Seattle) have even higher rates; always verify your exact jurisdiction's rule and the effective date of any change so your employer can adjust payroll correctly.
Sources
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