Summary
Some U.S. cities are planning to raise their minimum wage by 2026. These changes aim to help workers better cover living costs, as the federal minimum wage has not changed from $7.25 for 16 years. Several cities and states have set or plan to set higher minimum wages.
Key Facts
- The federal minimum wage is $7.25, unchanged for 16 years.
- Cities with planned 2026 wage increases include Seattle ($21.30), New York City ($17.00), and Denver ($19.29).
- Some cities, like Los Angeles and Portland, will adjust their minimum wage rates in July 2026.
- Several states already have wages of $15 or higher, including California at $16.50 and New York at $15.50.
- Five states have no minimum wage laws, so they follow the federal rate.
- Georgia and Wyoming's minimum wage is $5.15, so they also follow the federal rate.
- Senators have proposed a federal minimum wage increase to $15 per hour.
