Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Minimum Wages Rise in 19 States on Jan. 1, Led by New York, New Jersey and Ohio

The increases reflect earlier laws plus inflation indexing.

Overview

  • New York’s hourly floor moves to $17 in New York City, Long Island and Westchester and to $16 elsewhere, the final 50‑cent step before inflation‑based adjustments begin in 2027.
  • New Jersey lifts its base wage to $15.92, with separate lower schedules for seasonal and small‑business employees and distinct rates for tipped and agricultural workers.
  • Ohio’s rate increases to $11 for non‑tipped workers and $5.50 for tipped employees, and the state minimum now applies to businesses with at least $405,000 in annual gross receipts.
  • Michigan’s minimum rises to $13.73 under a 2018 law targeting $15 by January 2027, as restaurateurs and business groups warn of higher prices, automation and reduced hiring.
  • Maine’s statewide minimum reaches $15.10 and Portland’s local wage jumps to $16.75, with Alaska, Florida and Oregon set for later 2026 increases as the federal minimum remains $7.25 and EPI estimates more than 8.3 million workers are affected.