Overview
- More than 8.3 million workers are seeing higher pay after January 1 hikes across 19 states and 47 cities and counties.
- The Economic Policy Institute estimates this round will add roughly $5 billion to workers’ earnings.
- Hawaii recorded the largest statewide jump, up $2 to $16, while New York City–area wages reached $17 and Washington State rose to $17.13.
- About 20 states still pay the federal minimum, unchanged since 2009, and Texas remains at $7.25 because local governments there cannot set higher wage floors.
- EPI reports women and Black and Latino workers make up a disproportionate share of those benefiting from the new rates.