Federal minimum wage remains $7.25/hour (unchanged since 2009), but 21 states and 60+ cities/counties raised rates January 1, 2025, with 3 more states later. Employers must pay the highest of federal/state/local rates; tipped wages often lower with credits.
Top State Minimum Wages (Dec 2025)
| State/Region | Rate ($/hr) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $16.66 | Cities higher (Seattle $20.66) |
| California | $16.50 | Fast-food $20 |
| New York (NYC/Long Is/Westchester) | $16.50 | Rest of NY $15.50 |
| Washington D.C. | $17.50 (to $18 July) | Tipped $10 |
| Massachusetts | $15.00 | – |
| Michigan | $12.48 | Feb 2025 |
| Federal (21 states) | $7.25 | AL, GA, LA, MS, SC, TN, TX, etc. |
Full 2025 Increases: 88 jurisdictions total (23 states, 65 localities) hit $15+ in 70 areas. Washington leads; 7 states lack laws (federal applies).
Key Changes
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Inflation Adjustments: WA, NY, NJ, RI auto-increase.
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Local Variations: 300+ cities exceed state (e.g., Seattle $20.66).
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Tipped Wages: Often $2.13-$10 base + tips to reach full.
Verify via DOL.gov or state labor sites; rates apply non-exempt/hourly workers.
SOURCE
FAQs
Q1: What’s the U.S. federal minimum wage?
$7.25/hour (20 states).
Q2: Highest state rate?
Washington $16.66 (cities to $21).
Q3: More increases coming?
Yes—e.g., DC $18 July 2025.
