Minimum Wage in Washington
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Washington has one of the nation's highest minimum wages, adjusted annually for inflation.
How Washington treats Minimum Wage
As of 2024, Washington's minimum wage is $16.28 per hour and increases each January based on the Consumer Price Index. The state applies this rate uniformly across all employers regardless of business size. Washington also requires paid sick leave and has strict overtime rules, making it one of the most employee-friendly wage environments in the country.
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 Washington.