Minimum Wage in District of Columbia
State-specific overview · Employment Law
DC's minimum wage rises annually on July 1, currently $17.27/hour, with scheduled increases through 2026.
How District of Columbia treats Minimum Wage
The District of Columbia adjusts its minimum wage each July 1 based on inflation, using the Consumer Price Index. As of 2024, the minimum wage is $17.27 per hour for most employees. DC law requires employers to pay tipped employees at least 100% of the minimum wage (not a reduced tipped minimum), making it one of the most employee-friendly jurisdictions in the nation. The wage floor applies to all employers operating within DC regardless of 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 District of Columbia.