Workers across the U.S. are set for minimum wage increases in 2026. Here’s where.
As we enter the new year, workers across 22 states and 66 cities and counties in the U.S. are set to receive pay boosts due to higher minimum wage regulations taking effect. This change comes as a welcome relief for low-income households facing an affordability crisis.
According to a report from the National Employment Law Project (NELP), the minimum wage is scheduled to rise in a total of 68 jurisdictions on Jan. 1, 2026. This will impact 19 states and 49 cities and counties, with additional increases planned later in the year for four more states and 22 cities.
While the federal minimum wage remains stagnant at $7.25 an hour, states and municipalities have taken matters into their own hands to address the rising cost of living. Through ballot measures, inflation adjustments, and legislation, many jurisdictions have opted to raise their minimum wages to provide much-needed support to low-wage workers.
“Policies increasing the minimum wage have been a lifeline for underpaid workers who have been the most impacted by a growing affordability crisis,” the NELP report highlights.
Minimum Wage Increases in 2026
Starting on Jan. 1, workers in 60 jurisdictions will see their minimum wage reach at least $15 an hour. In three states and 40 localities, the minimum wage will exceed $17 an hour for some or all employers.
For example, in New Jersey, long-term care workers will see their minimum wage rise to $18.92 an hour. Similarly, New York City, Long Island, and Westchester will raise their baseline pay to $17 an hour.
Some jurisdictions have different minimum wages based on the size of the employer. In Hayward, California, large employers will have to pay workers a minimum of $17.79 an hour, while small establishments will have a minimum wage of $16.90.
Cost-of-living adjustments are driving minimum wage increases in 13 states and 44 cities and counties, allowing workers’ pay to keep pace with inflation. These raises, indexed to inflation, ensure that workers can afford the rising cost of living.
Many of these increases have been the result of worker-led organizing, spurred by movements like the Fight for $15, which advocates for better pay and working conditions. However, some localities still maintain a minimum wage of $7.25, particularly in southern U.S. states.
“The contrast between states and cities that are raising wages every year and those that are stuck at $7.25 is really jarring,” notes NELP researcher Tsedeye Gebreselassie. “We need to ensure that workers’ wages are increasing to address both the affordability crisis and the need for higher earning power.”
Overall, the upcoming minimum wage increases in 2026 reflect a positive step towards supporting low-wage workers and addressing the affordability challenges faced by many households across the country.
