Employer’s Guide to State-by-State Minimum Wage Laws
Last Updated on February 18, 2025
Minimum wage laws vary significantly across the United States, making it essential for employers to stay informed and compliant. From federal requirements to state-specific mandates, understanding minimum wage regulations helps businesses budget effectively, maintain compliance and foster fair labor practices. Use this guide- and the accompanying state-by-state chart- as a reference to keep your organization informed and compliant.
Federal Minimum Wage vs. State Minimum Wage
As of 2024, the federal minimum wage remains $7.25 per hour under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). However, many states and localities have enacted higher minimum wages. When a state’s minimum wage is higher than the federal standard, employers must pay the higher rate.
Additionally, some states have scheduled increases or automatic adjustments tied to inflation. Employers should be aware of upcoming changes to ensure compliance.
Key Considerations for Employers
State and Local Variations: Certain cities and counties impose their own minimum wages that exceed both federal and state rates. Employers should verify local laws to avoid compliance issues.
Industry-Specific Regulations: Some industries, such as hospitality and healthcare, have distinct minimum wage requirements, including tip credits for service workers.
Exemptions and Special Cases: Several states have exemptions for small businesses, seasonal workers, and youth employees. Employers must determine if special rules apply to their workforce.
Planned Wage Increases: States tend to schedule annual increases or cost-of-living adjustments. Employers should plan for these potential yearly wage hikes to manage payroll budgets.
Compliance and Record-Keeping: Employers are required to maintain accurate records to demonstrate compliance with wage laws. Failure to meet minimum wage obligations can result in penalties and legal consequences.
State-by-State Minimum Wage Chart
| State | Minimum Wage Law |
| Alabama | None |
| Alaska | $11.73 per hour. Adjusted annually on January 1 based on inflation. |
| Arizona | $14.35 per hour. Wage is adjusted annually on January 1 based on inflation. |
| Arkansas | $11 per hour |
| California | $16.00 per hour. Adjusted annually on January 1. *Many localities have established their own minimum wage laws.* |
| Colorado | $14.42 per hour. Wage is adjusted annually based on inflation. *Many localities have established their own minimum wage laws.* |
| Connecticut | $15.69 per hour. Adjusted annually on January 1. |
| District of Columbia | $17.50 per hour. Adjusted annually based on inflation in July. |
| Delaware | $15.00 per hour |
| Florida | $13.00 per hour. (Scheduled to increase by $1.00 every September 30th until reaching $15.00 on September 30, 2026.) |
| Georgia | *Applicable to employers of 6 or more employees.* $5.15 per hour. Employers subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act must pay the current Federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The State law excludes from coverage any employment that is subject to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act when the federal rate is greater than the State rate. |
| Hawaii | $14.00 per hour. (Increasing to $16.00 on 1/1/26 and $18.00 on 1/1/28.) |
| Idaho | $7.25 per hour |
| Illinois | *Applicable to employers of 4 or more employees, excluding family members.* $15.00 per hour |
| Indiana | *Applicable to employers of 2 or more employees.* $7.25 an hour |
| Kansas | $7.25 an hour Does not apply to any employers who are subject to the provisions of the FLSA. |
| Kentucky | $7.25 per hour |
| Louisiana | None |
| Maine | $14.65, adjusted annually on January 1. |
| Maryland | $15.00 per hour *Many localities have established their own minimum wage laws.* |
| Massachusetts | $15.00 per hour |
| Michigan | *Applicable to employers of 2 or more employees* $12.41 per hour as of February 21, 2025. The State law excludes from coverage any employment that is subject to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act unless the State wage rate is higher than the federal rate. |
| Minnesota | $11.13 per hour |
| Mississippi | None |
| Missouri | $13.75 per hour. Adjusted annually on January 1 based on inflation. Retail and service employers that gross less than $500,000 are exempt from state minimum wage law. |
| Montana | $10.55 per hour. A business not covered by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act whose gross annual sales are $110,000 or less may pay $4.00 per hour. However, if an individual employee is producing or moving goods between states or otherwise covered by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, that employee must be paid the greater of either the federal minimum wage or Montana’s minimum wage. |
| Nebraska | *Applicable to employers of 4 or more employees* $13.50 per hour |
| Nevada | $12.00 per hour |
| New Hampshire | $7.25 per hour. Follows the federal minimum wage. |
| New Jersey | 15.13 per hour for most employers with more than 5 employees. $13.73 per hour for seasonal employers and small employers with 5 or fewer employees. $12.81 for agricultural employers. $18.13 for long-term care facility direct care staff members. |
| New Mexico | $12.00 per hour *Many localities have established their own minimum wage laws.* |
| New York | $16.50 New York City, Long Island, and Westchester. $15.50 remainder of New York state. |
| North Carolina | $7.25 per hour |
| North Dakota | $7.25 per hour |
| Ohio | $10.70 per hour for employers with annual gross receipts of $394,000 or more. $7.25 per hour for employers with annual gross receipts under $194,000. |
| Oklahoma | $7.25 per hour |
| Oregon | $14.70 per hour; $15.95 Portland Metro Area; $13.70 Non-Urban counties |
| Pennsylvania | $7.25 per hour |
| Rhode Island | $15.00 per hour |
| South Carolina | None |
| South Dakota | $11.50 per hour |
| Tennessee | None |
| Texas | $7.25 per hour |
| Utah | $7.25 per hour |
| Vermont | *Applicable to employers of two or more employees* $14.01 per hour |
| Virginia | $12.41 per hour |
| Washington | $16.66 per hour |
| West Virginia | *Applicable to employers of 6 or more employees at one location* $8.75 per hour |
| Wisconsin | $7.25 per hour |
| Wyoming | $5.15 per hour |
Partnering with MyHRConcierge for Compliance Success
Staying compliant with minimum wage laws is a critical responsibility for employers. By understanding federal, state and local wage requirements, businesses can avoid costly penalties and ensure fair compensation for their employees.
MyHRConcierge provides expert HR guidance to help businesses navigate complex wage laws while staying compliant. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest legislative changes, offers customized HR solutions to meet the needs of your organization. Contact MyHRConcierge today at ccooley@myhrconcierge.com, 855-538-6947 ext. 108, or, schedule a free consultation: