A Bright Spot: Celebrating Minimum Wage Increases in 2026

As we continue the many layers of resistance into 2026, it’s important to note that we are seeing changes to minimum wage laws take effect. These increases are the result of years of organizing, advocacy, and community & union-led action. They demonstrate what’s possible when movements like ours push systems to better reflect the lived realities of working people.

This year, at least 19 states implemented minimum wage increases effective January 1, 2026, raising the wage floor to levels that make a real difference for over 8 million people. We’ll highlight some state wins there, but also keep in mind there have been locality changes as well.

What’s Changed

The Economic Policy Institute has published a fantastic interactive blog that details the changes in these 19 states.

Some highlights include:

• Washington State raised its minimum wage to over $17 per hour, making it one of the highest in the nation.
• New York now pays up to $17 in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, and $16 elsewhere in the state (highlighting a locality difference – definitely research your effected cities & states).
• California lifted its statewide floor for all workers (including tipped) to nearly $17 per hour.
• Missouri reached the pivotal $15 per hour rate as a result of a ballot measure

Take a Moment of Celebration

These increases reflect years of legislative work, ballot initiatives, lawsuits and continued organizing that are now paying off for workers across the country.