19 States Just Raised Minimum Wage in 2026 – Are You Getting Paid More?

If you're working in hourly jobs like retail, food service, or hospitality, good news – 19 states bumped up their minimum wage started January 1, 2026.

Which States Got the Biggest Raises?

Here are the top minimum wage increases for 2026 – some states are now paying $17+/hour:

Highest Increases:

• Hawaii: $14 → $16 (14% jump!)

• California: $16.50 → $16.90

• New York City: $16.50 → $17

• Washington: $16.66 → $17.13 (highest in America)

• Missouri: $13.75 → $15

• Nebraska: $13.50 → $15

Full List of 2026 Increases (19 States):

• Arizona ($15.15), Colorado, Connecticut ($16.94), Maine ($15.10)

• Michigan ($13.73), Minnesota ($11.41), Montana

• New Jersey ($15.92), Ohio ($11), Rhode Island ($16)

• South Dakota ($11.85), Vermont ($14.42), Virginia ($12.77)

Cities Paying Even More:

• Seattle: $21.30/hour

• Minneapolis: $16.37/hour

Federal Minimum Wage? Still Stuck at $7.25 Since 2009

While nearly half the states now beat federal minimum wage, 29 states are still tied to that ancient $7.25/hour (unchanged for 17 years).

What This Means for Workers & Employers

For employees: Immediate paycheck boost – no action needed!

For employers: Update payroll NOW or face fines. Check DOL state wage map.

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