Minimum Wage in New York
State-specific overview · Employment Law
New York's minimum wage varies by region and increases annually, with New York City having the highest rate.
How New York treats Minimum Wage
New York maintains three regional minimum wage rates: New York City, Westchester County, and the rest of the state, with NYC rates significantly higher than other regions. The state increases minimum wages annually on December 31. As of 2024, New York City's minimum wage substantially exceeds both the state and federal minimums. Tipped employees in New York receive a lower base wage but must be brought to the full minimum wage when tips fall short.
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 New York.