Minimum Wage Changes in These States – New Increases Effective in July

As of today, a new minimum wage increase has taken effect for large, small, and micro businesses across the United States. This change is part of the ongoing effort to maintain workers’ purchasing power amid inflation, ensuring wages keep pace with rising living costs.

By 2027, all businesses must pay their employees a minimum wage of $15 per hour. Let’s look into the specifics of these changes, focusing on the five states and more than 10 US cities that will benefit from the increases starting yesterday.

Statewide Increases

California, with its high cost of living, sees a significant boost in its minimum wage. The following cities and counties have raised their minimum wage:

• Alameda: $17 per hour
• Berkeley: $18.67 per hour
• Emeryville: $19.36 per hour
• Fremont: $17.30 per hour
• Los Angeles: $17.28 per hour
• Los Angeles County: $17.17 per hour
• Milpitas: $17.70 per hour
• Pasadena: $17.50 per hour
• San Francisco: $18.67 per hour
• Santa Monica: $17.27 per hour

Illinois

Illinois is also increasing its minimum wage to provide relief to workers:

• Chicago: $16.20 for employers with more than four workers
• Cook County: $14.05 per hour

Minnesota

Minnesota’s major cities are seeing increases:

• Minneapolis: $15.57 per hour
• St. Paul: $15.57 for large companies, $14 for small employers

Washington

Washington has new rates for different cities:

• Renton: $20.29 for large companies; $18.29 for medium-sized businesses
• Tukwila: $19.29 for small businesses; $20.29 for big businesses

Maryland

Maryland’s Montgomery County has also adjusted its rates:

• Large businesses: $17.15 per hour
• Medium-sized employers: $15.50 per hour
• Small employers: $15 per hour

City-Specific Increases

Washington, D.C., now boasts the highest minimum wage in the country at $17.50 per hour, significantly above the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. This annual adjustment is linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Oregon

Oregon’s minimum wage varies by region, reflecting different living costs:

• Portland: $15.95 per hour
• Non-rural counties: $14.70 per hour
• Rural counties: $13.70 per hour

Nevada

Nevada has raised its minimum wage by $1.75 to $12 per hour, eliminating the lower rate for employers who provide health insurance.

Economic Impact

These increases aim to mitigate economic constraints for workers, especially in states like California, where living costs are among the highest in the nation. By adjusting minimum wages to reflect inflation and living costs, these changes help ensure that workers can maintain their purchasing power.

The new minimum wage increases across various states and cities in the United States mark a significant step towards supporting workers in the face of rising living costs. By staying informed about these changes, workers can better plan their finances and employers can ensure compliance with the new regulations. These adjustments demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the economic well-being of workers nationwide.

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