Anaheim vs Santa Ana
How do minimum wage preemption rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Anaheim has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim follows California's statewide minimum wage of $16.50/hour (2026), indexed to inflation. The city has no general local minimum wage, but Resort-area employers must pay the higher Measure L living wage.
View full Anaheim rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana follows the California statewide minimum wage of $16.50 per hour effective January 2026 for all employers. The city has not adopted a higher local wage, so state law governs.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| State minimum | $16.50/hour 2026 | $16.50 per hour |
| Citywide local minimum | None enacted | - |
| Resort living wage | Measure L applies | - |
| Fast-food minimum | $20/hour AB 1228 | - |
| Indexing | Annual CPI adjustment | - |
| Fast-food rate | - | $20 under AB 1228 |
| Healthcare rate | - | SB 525 schedule |
| Local floor | - | None in Santa Ana |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Does Anaheim have a citywide minimum wage?
No. Anaheim follows California's statewide minimum wage of $16.50/hour. The Measure L living wage is narrower, applying only to subsidized Resort-area hospitality employers.
What about tipped workers?
California does not allow a tip credit. Tipped workers must receive the full minimum wage from their employer; tips are additional and may not offset wage obligations.
Santa Ana FAQ
Is there a tipped minimum wage?
No. California requires tipped workers to receive the full state minimum wage in addition to any tips. Tip credits used in some other states are not permitted under California Labor Code.
How do I file a wage claim?
Workers can file a claim with the California Labor Commissioner's Office (DLSE) online or at the Santa Ana district office. The agency investigates and can recover unpaid wages plus penalties.
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