Minimum Wage by State in 2025: As inflation and living costs rise, the minimum wage continues to be a critical focus in the United States. In 2025, 21 states have raised their minimum wage rates, bringing financial relief to millions of workers. Meanwhile, other states maintain the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. States like Florida are gradually increasing wages to reach $15 per hour in the coming years. Below, we break down the minimum wage rates across the country and highlight the key trends for 2025.
Overview
While the federal minimum wage remains unchanged at $7.25 per hour, many states and municipalities have set higher standards. Washington, D.C., leads the nation with a minimum wage of $17.50 per hour, followed by Washington state at $16.66 and California at $16.50.
Here is a detailed state-by-state comparison of minimum wages in 2025:
| State | Minimum Wage (Per Hour) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $7.25 |
| Alaska | $11.91 |
| Arizona | $14.70 |
| Arkansas | $11.00 |
| California | $16.50 |
| Colorado | $14.81 |
| Connecticut | $16.35 |
| Delaware | $15.00 |
| Florida | $13.00 |
| Georgia | $7.25 |
| Hawaii | $14.00 |
| Idaho | $7.25 |
| Illinois | $15.00 |
| Indiana | $7.25 |
| Iowa | $7.25 |
| Kansas | $7.25 |
| Kentucky | $7.25 |
| Louisiana | $7.25 |
| Maine | $14.65 |
| Maryland | $15.00 |
| Massachusetts | $15.00 |
| Michigan | $10.56 |
| Minnesota | $11.13 |
| Mississippi | $7.25 |
| Missouri | $13.75 |
| Montana | $10.55 |
| Nebraska | $13.50 |
| Nevada | $12.00 |
| New Hampshire | $7.25 |
| New Jersey | $15.49 (most employers); $14.53 (small/temp employers) |
| New Mexico | $12.00 |
| New York | $16.50 (NYC/LI/Westchester); $15.50 (rest of the state) |
| North Carolina | $7.25 |
| North Dakota | $7.25 |
| Ohio | $10.70 |
| Oklahoma | $7.25 |
| Oregon | $14.70 (basic); $15.95 (Portland); $13.70 (rural) |
| Pennsylvania | $7.25 |
| Rhode Island | $15.00 |
| South Carolina | $7.25 |
| South Dakota | $11.50 |
| Tennessee | $7.25 |
| Texas | $7.25 |
| Utah | $7.25 |
| Vermont | $14.01 |
| Virginia | $12.41 |
| Washington, D.C. | $17.50 |
| Washington | $16.66 |
| West Virginia | $8.75 |
| Wisconsin | $7.25 |
| Wyoming | $7.25 |
Key Highlights
- Highest Minimum Wages: Washington, D.C., takes the lead with $17.50 per hour, followed by Washington state ($16.66) and California ($16.50).
- Scheduled Increases: Florida continues its annual increases, aiming to reach $15 per hour soon.
- Federal Minimum Holdouts: States like Texas, Tennessee, and Georgia still adhere to the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour.
This stark variation in wage standards reflects the diverse economic conditions, political climates, and cost-of-living priorities across the nation.
Staying Informed
Whether you’re an employee or employer, understanding your state’s minimum wage laws is essential for budgeting and planning. As wage adjustments often impact payroll and cost structures, staying updated on local labor regulations is crucial. For detailed guidance, consult your state labor office or legal resources to ensure compliance.