Minimum wage
North Carolina Minimum Wage 2026
North Carolina minimum wage is $7.25/hr in 2026. Tipped minimum, scheduled increases, and what it means for hiring hourly workers.
North Carolina minimum wage: $7.25 per hour. Tipped minimum: $2.13. Updated 2026-05-15.
Hiring in North Carolina
North Carolina minimum wage FAQ
What is the minimum wage in North Carolina?
The minimum wage in North Carolina is $7.25 per hour as of 2026-05-15.
What is the tipped minimum wage in North Carolina?
The tipped minimum wage in North Carolina is $2.13 per hour. Employers must make up the difference if tips do not bring earnings to the full $7.25 minimum.
Is North Carolina's minimum wage going up?
There are no scheduled minimum wage increases in North Carolina at this time.
Minimum wage by state, tipped minimum wage by state, overtime rules.