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What's new in 2026
California minimum wage rates as of January, 2026
California’s minimum wage landscape continues to evolve two times each year. The statewide rate will rise to $16.90 per hour for all employers on January 1, 2026. Many cities and counties enforce local minimum wage ordinances that exceed that rate.
To keep track of interim updates, see the UC Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education.
For employers with remote employees in multiple jurisdictions, different minimum wage rates may apply based on each worker’s location. To streamline compliance, some employers choose to pay the highest applicable minimum wage across all locations.
Covered employers are required to conspicuously post the applicable wage notice(s), available by the links above.
See also:
Helena Kobrin
Daniska Coronado
December 19, 2025
If you are an employer facing possible litigation, or have an employee issue on which you need immediate guidance, call us to set up a consultation, or submit your message.
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