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Berkeley, CA Hotels & Lodging: Hotel Living Wage (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Code
BMC 13.27
Indexing
Bay Area CPI
Health benefit
Higher rate without it
Scope
City contractors and assisted entities

Summary

Hotels and city contractors operating in Berkeley must pay the Living Wage set under BMC Chapter 13.27, which exceeds the state minimum and adjusts annually for inflation, plus health benefits or supplemental cash wages.

1182.12. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the minimum wage for all industries shall not be less than the amounts set forth in this subdivision. (1) For any employer who employs 26 or more employees, the minimum wage shall be as follows: (F) From January 1, 2022, and until adjusted by subdivision (c)—fifteen dollars ($15) per hour. (2) For any employer who employs 25 or fewer employees: (F) From January 1, 2023, and until adjusted by subdivision (c)—fifteen dollars ($15) per hour.

Source: Berkeley Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Berkeley adopted its Living Wage Ordinance in 2000 to cover city contractors, lessees on city property, and recipients of city financial assistance above a defined threshold. The ordinance sets a floor that exceeds California minimum wage, with a higher rate when employers do not provide qualifying health coverage. Hotels with city land-use entitlements, bond financing, or other qualifying assistance fall within scope, and the ordinance interacts with the separate Berkeley Minimum Wage covering all employers. Annual adjustments track the Bay Area consumer price index, and covered employers must post current rates conspicuously.

Violations & Fines

Underpayment, retaliation, or recordkeeping failures expose covered employers to back wages, liquidated damages, civil penalties, and possible debarment from future city contracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Living Wage cover all hotel staff?
Only hotels that hold a qualifying city contract, lease, or financial assistance. All other hospitality employers fall under the Berkeley Minimum Wage Ordinance instead.
How is the rate updated?
The Living Wage adjusts each July based on Bay Area consumer price index changes. Berkeley publishes the new rates and posters before the effective date.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Berkeley

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All Berkeley rules

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