Minimum wage hikes go into effect in 19 states — here’s where

The flipping of the calendar brought with it increases in the minimum wage in select states across the country.

Nineteen states increased their minimum wages on Jan. 1, raising earnings for more than 8.3 million workers (list of states at end of article). For the first time, there are more workers in states with a $15 or greater minimum wage than in states with the federal minimum of $7.25, according to the Economic Policy Institute. 

In addition, 47 cities and counties raised their minimum wages, adding to the number of workers likely to get larger paychecks.

The state with the biggest increase in 2026 is Hawaii, where the minimum wage increased by $2 per house, rising from $14 to $16. Other states with minimum wage increases include Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey and New York. 

With the 2026 increases, Washington maintains its position as the state with the highest minimum wage in the country, with workers receiving $17.20 per hour. New York City is next, at $17 per hour (the increase also applies to New York’s Long Island and Westchester.)  

Minimum wage hikes go into effect in 19 states — here’s where | Chain Store Age