Minimum wage

California Minimum Wage 2026

California minimum wage is $16.50/hr in 2026. Tipped minimum, scheduled increases, and what it means for hiring hourly workers.

California minimum wage: $16.50 per hour. Tipped minimum: same as the standard minimum. Updated 2026-05-15.

Fast-food workers $20.00. Healthcare workers $18–$25 depending on facility.

Local minimum wages in California

  • San Francisco: $19.18/hr
  • Los Angeles: $17.87/hr
  • San Diego: $17.25/hr
  • San Jose: $17.95/hr
  • Oakland: $16.89/hr
  • Berkeley: $18.67/hr
  • Emeryville: $19.90/hr
  • West Hollywood: $19.65/hr
  • Pasadena: $17.50/hr
  • Santa Monica: $17.27/hr

Hiring in California

  • Hire barbers in Los Angeles, CA
  • Hire barbers in San Francisco, CA
  • Hire barbers in San Diego, CA
  • Hire barbers in San Jose, CA
  • Hire barbers in Sacramento, CA
  • Hire hair stylists in Los Angeles, CA

California minimum wage FAQ

What is the minimum wage in California?

The minimum wage in California is $16.50 per hour as of 2026-05-15. Fast-food workers $20.00. Healthcare workers $18–$25 depending on facility.

What is the tipped minimum wage in California?

California does not have a separate tipped minimum wage. Tipped employees must be paid the full state minimum of $16.50 per hour before tips.

Is California's minimum wage going up?

There are no scheduled minimum wage increases in California at this time.

Minimum wage by state, tipped minimum wage by state, overtime rules.