New York City Minimum Wage 2026
The minimum wage in New York City, NY is $17.00/hr ($0.50 above the $16.50 New York state minimum). NYC uses New York's downstate rate, which is higher than the upstate minimum. Applies to New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
New York City vs. New York vs. federal
New York City sets a higher floor than New York law ($16.50/hr statewide) and well above the federal minimum of $7.25/hr. When city, state, and federal minimums differ, employers must pay the highest rate for hours worked inside New York City city limits. Workers earning at the New York City minimum make $9.75 more per hour than the federal floor.
What this means for hiring in New York City
A higher local wage means every hour of a bad hire costs more. The cost of replacing an hourly worker typically runs 30% of first-year wages, and in New York City that number sits well above what it would be elsewhere in New York. That's why employers here are moving away from resume-only screening toward seeing real proof of skill before they bring someone on.
On Vetano, every candidate in New York City is ID-verified and shows their skills on video before you ever see their profile, so you spend your New York City minimum-wage hours on people who can actually do the job.
FAQ
What is the minimum wage in New York City?+
$17.00 per hour as of 2026-07-26. NYC uses New York's downstate rate, which is higher than the upstate minimum. Applies to New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
Is New York City's minimum wage higher than New York's state minimum?+
Yes. New York City requires $17.00/hr, compared to $16.50/hr statewide. The higher rate applies to work performed within city limits.
What is the tipped minimum wage in New York City?+
$11.35 per hour. Employers must make up any shortfall if tips don't bring earnings to $17.00.
Is New York City's minimum wage going up?+
No scheduled increases at this time.
Hiring hourly workers in New York City?
Post a job on Vetano and reach ID-verified candidates in New York City who show their skills on video. First 30 days free.
Free for talent to get hired. Talent Pro ($79/mo) is optional for gig work, and Vetano never takes a cut of what workers earn.
Other city minimum wages
Cities where the local minimum exceeds the state rate. Also see the full state wage index.