California sets a statewide minimum wage floor under Labor Code 1182.12, currently $16.50 per hour for all employers as of 2025. Local governments are not preempted and may set higher minimums; many cities exceed the state rate substantially.
Labor Code 1182.12 establishes the statewide minimum wage with annual indexed adjustments tied to inflation. As of January 2025, the rate is $16.50 per hour for all California employers. Sector-specific minimums apply: $20 for fast-food workers under AB 1228 (Labor Code 1474) and $25 for covered healthcare workers under SB 525 (Labor Code 1182.14). California does not preempt local minimum wage ordinances; over 30 cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and West Hollywood set higher minimums. Employers must pay the highest applicable rate.
Violations subject employers to back wages, liquidated damages, civil penalties up to $100 per pay period for first violations and $250 thereafter under Labor Code 1197.1.
See how San Diego's minimum wage preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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