Minimum Wage in California
State-specific overview · Employment Law
California's minimum wage is $16.50 per hour statewide as of 2024, with scheduled increases ahead.
How California treats Minimum Wage
California has one of the nation's highest minimum wages at $16.50 per hour, with increases scheduled to continue through 2026. The state also allows certain local jurisdictions to set even higher minimum wages for their areas. California's minimum wage applies to nearly all employees, including those in agriculture and domestic work, with limited exemptions for apprentices and workers with disabilities.
The general definition of Minimum Wage
The lowest hourly wage an employer is legally required to pay employees.
Minimum wage is the lowest hourly rate that employers must pay workers by law. The federal minimum wage in the United States is currently $7.25 per hour, but many states and cities have set their own higher minimums. Employers cannot pay workers less than the applicable minimum wage, even if the worker agrees to it. The minimum wage applies to most employees, though some categories (like certain trainees or workers with disabilities) may have exceptions. Violations can result in lawsuits, penalties, and back-pay owed to employees.
Read the full Minimum Wage entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in California.