Summary
Washington state will raise its minimum wage to $17.13 per hour starting January 1, 2026, making it the highest state minimum wage in the United States. This change is part of a broader trend where 19 states are increasing their minimum wages. Some cities in Washington, like Seattle, will have even higher local minimum wages.
Key Facts
- Washington's minimum wage will be $17.13 per hour starting January 1, 2026.
- It will be the highest state minimum wage in the United States.
- 19 states in total are raising their minimum wages next month.
- Other states with minimum wages over $16 include New York, Connecticut, California, Hawai'i, and Rhode Island.
- Washington, D.C., will have a minimum wage of $17.95.
- Initiative 1433, passed in 2016, ties Washington state’s minimum wage increases to inflation.
- Seattle will have a local minimum wage of $21.30, while Tukwila, Burien, Renton, Everett, and SeaTac set even higher rates for certain employers.
- Some believe higher minimum wages can lead to increased prices and fewer job opportunities, while others argue they protect low-wage workers.
