Minimum Wage Preemption: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do minimum wage preemption rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Washington's statewide minimum wage under RCW 49.46.020 is $16.66 per hour in 2026 with annual inflation adjustments; cities including Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, and Renton set higher local floors under their own ordinances.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle's Minimum Wage Ordinance SMC 14.19 sets a citywide floor well above Washington's, reaching $20.76 per hour in 2025 for all employers with a single rate after small-business tip and benefit credits sunset in 2025.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| WA 2026 wage | $16.66 per hour | - |
| Authority | RCW 49.46.020 | - |
| Origin | I-688, I-1433 | - |
| Local higher | Seattle, SeaTac, etc. | - |
| Code section | - | SMC 14.19 |
| 2025 rate | - | $20.76 per hour |
| Coverage trigger | - | 2+ hours biweekly |
| Recordkeeping | - | 3 years payroll |
| Enforcer | - | Office of Labor Standards |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Does King County set its own minimum wage?
No. Unincorporated King County uses the Washington state minimum wage. Several cities within the county, including Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, and Renton, set higher local minimums by ordinance.
How is the state wage adjusted each year?
Under RCW 49.46.020, Washington Labor and Industries adjusts the minimum wage every January based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) over the prior year.
Seattle FAQ
Are tipped workers paid less?
No. As of January 1, 2025, Seattle eliminated tip and medical-benefit credits, so all employees must receive at least $20.76 per hour in direct wages regardless of tips.
Does it cover remote workers?
Coverage applies to any employee performing at least two hours of work within Seattle city limits in a two-week period, including delivery drivers passing through.
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