Minimum Wage by State: Know the Rates, Increases, and Trends [2025]

Navigating the complexities of employment dynamics, our focus turns to the pivotal subject of minimum wage by state. This exploration sheds light on the varied financial frameworks that influence job choices and fiscal strategies. Join us as we dissect the nuances of state minimum wage, unveiling insights that empower informed decisions and foster financial growth.

What Is the Minimum Wage in All States?

The minimum wage in the US states is multifaceted, mirroring the substantial disparities in the cost of living across states. A majority of states, as well as certain cities, have instituted their individual minimum hourly wage rates, often exceeding the federal benchmark. Below is a summary of the minimum wages for each state, based on the most recent information available:

State	Minimum wage
Alabama	$7.25
Alaska	$11.91
Arizona	$14.70
Arkansas	$11.00
California	$16.50
Colorado	$14.81
Connecticut	$16.35
Delaware	$15.00
District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.)	$17.00
Florida	$13.00
Georgia	$7.25
Hawaii	$14.00
Idaho	$7.25
Illinois	$15.00
Indiana	$7.25
Iowa	$7.25
Kansas	$7.25
Kentucky	$7.25
Louisiana	$7.25
Maine	$14.65
Maryland	$15.00
Massachusetts	$15.00
Michigan	$10.56
Minnesota	$11.13
Mississippi	$7.25
Missouri	$13.75
Montana	$10.55
Nebraska	$13.50
Nevada	$12.00
New Hampshire	$7.25
New Jersey	$15.50
New Mexico	$12.00
New York	$16.00
North Carolina	$7.25
North Dakota	$7.25
Ohio	$10.45
Oklahoma	$7.25
Oregon	$15.45
Pennsylvania	$7.25
Rhode Island	$14.00
South Carolina	$7.25
South Dakota	$11.20
Tennessee	$7.25
Texas	$7.25
Utah	$7.25
Vermont	$13.67
Virginia	$12.00
Washington	$16.28
West Virginia	$8.75
Wisconsin	$7.25
Wyoming	$5.15

Notes:
Colorado – Applicable to retail and service, commercial support service, food and beverage, and health and medical industries
Florida – The Florida minimum wage is scheduled to increase by $1.00 every September 30th until reaching $15.00 on September 30, 2026
Indiana – Applicable to employers of 2 or more employees
Michigan – From 2019 through 2030, the minimum wage will increase annually on a set schedule, provided the unemployment rate in the preceding year does not exceed 8.5%
New York – Employees receive 1 hour of pay at minimum wage rate in addition to owed wages when the spread of hours exceeds 10 hours, there is a split shift, or both.

❗ Learn the difference between salary vs wage in our article!

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What States Are Raising Their State Wages in 2025?

Alaska

• 2024 minimum wage: $11.73
• 2025 minimum wage: $11.91

Arizona

• 2024 minimum wage: $14.35
• 2025 minimum wage: $14.70

California

• 2024 minimum wage: $16.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $16.50

Colorado

• 2024 minimum wage: $14.42
• 2025 minimum wage: $14.81

Connecticut

• 2024 minimum wage: $15.69
• 2025 minimum wage: $16.35

Delaware

• 2024 minimum wage: $13.25
• 2025 minimum wage: $15.00

Illinois

• 2024 minimum wage: $14.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $15.00

Maine

• 2024 minimum wage: $14.15
• 2025 minimum wage: $14.65

Michigan

• 2024 minimum wage: $10.33
• 2025 minimum wage: $10.56

Minnesota

• 2024 minimum wage: $10.85
• 2025 minimum wage: $11.13

Missouri

• 2024 minimum wage: $12.30
• 2025 minimum wage: $13.75

Montana

• 2024 minimum wage: $10.30
• 2025 minimum wage: $10.55

Nebraska

• 2024 minimum wage: $12.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $13.50

New Jersey

• 2024 minimum wage: $15.13
• 2025 minimum wage: $15.49

New York

• 2024 minimum wage (NYC, Long Island, Westchester): $16.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $16.50
• 2024 minimum wage (remainder of state): $15.00
• 2025 minimum wage: Legislated increase

Ohio

• 2024 minimum wage: $10.45
• 2025 minimum wage: $10.70

Rhode Island

• 2024 minimum wage: $14.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $15.00

South Dakota

• 2024 minimum wage: $11.20
• 2025 minimum wage: $11.50

Vermont

• 2024 minimum wage: $13.67
• 2025 minimum wage: $14.01

Virginia

• 2024 minimum wage: $12.00
• 2025 minimum wage: $12.41

Washington

• 2024 minimum wage: $16.28
• 2025 minimum wage: $16.66

These adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to address economic considerations and ensure equitable compensation in various states.

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Who Does State Minimum Wage Apply To?

State minimum wage laws typically apply to a broad range of workers, covering various employment scenarios. Here’s a concise overview of who state minimum wage generally applies to:

• Full-time employees: Individuals working regular, full-time jobs fall under the umbrella of state minimum wage laws.
• Part-time employees: Workers with part-time or variable-hour schedules are generally covered and entitled to the state minimum wage.
• Temporary workers: Temporary or seasonal workers are typically included in state minimum wage regulations.
• Teenagers and young workers: State minimum wage laws often extend to teenagers and young workers, providing them with wage protection.
• Independent contractors: Depending on the state, even some independent contractors may be covered by minimum wage laws.
• Tipped employees: Workers who earn tips may have a lower base wage, but state laws often stipulate a minimum cash wage they must receive.
• Disabled workers: Workers with disabilities are generally covered, although some programs may allow for subminimum wages under certain circumstances.
• Trainees and apprentices: Trainees and apprentices may be covered by state minimum wage laws, though there may be specific provisions during training periods.
• Agricultural workers: Agricultural workers are often included, though there can be variations in regulations based on specific state laws.
• Public and private sector employees: State minimum wage laws typically apply to both public and private sector employees.

In addition to state minimum wage laws, it’s crucial to consider the federal minimum wage regulations outlined in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA governs non-exempt employees, typically hourly and blue-collar workers earning less than $684 per week.

However, certain categories of employees are excluded from the federal minimum wage laws, including:

• Tipped employees: Tipped employees who regularly receive more than $30 in monthly tips are subject to specific provisions. Employers must ensure that these employees’ total earnings (including tips and a base cash wage) meet or exceed the minimum wage.
• Full-time students: Full-time students employed by a retail store, university, or service company are covered by the FLSA. Employers must pay these students at least 85% of the federal minimum wage.
• Students in vocational or technical programs: Students enrolled in vocational or technical programs fall under FLSA regulations. They should receive at least 75% of the federal minimum wage during their enrollment period.
• Employees under 20 years old in a probationary period: Employees under the age of 20 completing a three-month probationary period may be paid a subminimum wage of at least $4.25 per hour. After completing the probationary period or reaching age 20 (whichever comes first), they must be paid at least the federal minimum wage.
• Employees with mental or physical disabilities: The FLSA acknowledges employees with mental or physical disabilities that may affect their production capacity. This category includes individuals with conditions such as alcohol or drug addiction, cerebral palsy, blindness, developmental disabilities, or mental illness.

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Minimum Wage: Federal vs. State vs. City

Navigating the intricacies of minimum wage laws involves understanding regulations at the federal, state, and even city levels. Each tier establishes its standards, contributing to a nuanced landscape that impacts workers across the United States.

🇺🇸 Federal minimum wage

The federal minimum wage, established by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), serves as the baseline across the entire United States. As of 2023, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. Non-exempt employees, typically including hourly and blue-collar workers earning less than $684 per week, fall under federal regulations.

🏛️ State minimum wage

States have the authority to set their minimum wage rates, allowing them to respond to local economic conditions. In 2023, for instance, California has set its minimum wage at $14 per hour, surpassing the federal standard. Workers in California are entitled to this higher rate, illustrating the variability across states.

Additionally, states may have different regulations regarding exemptions and special provisions, impacting various categories of workers.

🏙️ City minimum wage

Cities within states may further tailor minimum wage ordinances to address unique economic dynamics. In Seattle, Washington, the minimum wage is $15.75 per hour as of 2023. This local ordinance, higher than both the federal and state rates, reflects the city’s cost of living and showcases the localized approach to wage regulations.

Workers are entitled to the highest minimum wage rate applicable to their specific location—whether it be the federal, state, or city rate. This nuanced approach ensures that employees receive compensation aligned with the economic conditions of their particular region.

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Which State Has the Highest Minimum Wage Now?

Leading the charge in providing substantial minimum wages, Washington claims the top position with an impressive rate of $16.28 per hour. A snapshot of states boasting the highest minimum wages is outlined below:

State	Minimum wage
Washington	$16.66
California	$16.50
Connecticut	$16.35
Oregon	$15.45 (Portland metro area)
New York	$16.50 (Long Island, Westchester, and New York City) $15.00
New Jersey	$15.49
Massachusetts	$15.00
Maryland	$15.00

Notably, if Washington, D.C., were considered a state, it would have claimed the top spot with an impressive $17 per hour. These states showcase a commitment to setting high standards for minimum wages, reflecting a broader movement toward equitable compensation for workers.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the minimum wage landscape in the United States is undergoing significant adjustments in 2025, with many states continuing their commitment to increasing wages for workers. While 21 states are seeing increases this year, these vary widely depending on local legislation, inflation adjustments, or specific ballot measures. Notably, several states have passed measures that will push wages to or above $15 per hour, ensuring a growing number of workers benefit from these increases.

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