California's Minimum Wage Increasing in 2026

The California Labor Commissioner’s Office (LCO) reminds employers that the state minimum wage will increase from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour on January 1, 2026.

State law requires that most California workers be paid at least the minimum wage. Workers who are paid less than the minimum wage are encouraged to contact the Labor Commissioner’s Office in their area to file a wage claim.