Minimum Wage in Colorado
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Colorado's minimum wage adjusts annually for inflation and currently exceeds the federal rate significantly.
How Colorado treats Minimum Wage
Colorado sets its own minimum wage above the federal $7.25 per hour, with the rate adjusted each January 1 based on inflation. As of 2024, Colorado's minimum wage is $15.00 per hour. Tipped employees must receive at least 90% of the standard minimum wage from their employer, with tips making up the difference. The state applies the same minimum wage to all covered employees regardless of industry or business size.
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 Colorado.