States and Cities Raise Minimum Wage Rates Effective January 2026

Happy New Year!

With 2026 comes new minimum wage thresholds in several states and localities around the country. For example:

• New York – Minimum wage increased on New Year’s Day to $17 per hour in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, and $16 per hour in the rest of the state. Beginning next year, wage increases will be tied to inflation.
• California raised its minimum wage to $16.90 per hour for most employers effective January 1, 2026.
• New Jersey raised its minimum wage to $15.92 per hour for most employers.
• Colorado, Connecticut, Michigan and a litany of other states likewise raised their minimum wages, and cities across multiple states have increased their own locality-specific minimum wages.

Employers: Make sure that they are complying with these increases.
Reach out to counsel for guidance.