What is the federal minimum wage in the US in 2026?

The federal minimum wage under the FLSA is $7.25 per hour, last raised in July 2009. However, federal law is a floor — states and local governments can (and many do) set higher rates. As of 2026, over 30 states have minimum wages above $7.25. California is at $16.50/hour (general rate); Washington State $16.66/hour; New York $16.50/hour in NYC; Washington DC $17.50/hour.

Tipped employees in covered industries may be paid a reduced cash wage of $2.13/hour under the federal tip credit, provided that tips bring their total hourly earnings to at least $7.25. If tips fall short, the employer must make up the difference. Several states — including California, Alaska, and Minnesota — require the full minimum wage for tipped workers regardless of tips received.

Youth minimum wage: employers may pay workers under 20 a minimum of $4.25/hour for the first 90 days of employment (the FLSA youth sub-minimum). Many states prohibit this sub-minimum. The DOL Wage and Hour Division enforces the federal minimum wage; SHRM tracks all state rates.