Los Angeles, CA Hotels & Lodging: Hotel Living Wage (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- LAMC Section 186.02
- Coverage
- Hotels 60-plus rooms
- Current wage (2024)
- $20.32 per hour
- 2028 target
- $30 per hour
- Healthcare add-on
- $8.35 per hour
Summary
LAMC Section 186.02, the Citywide Hotel Worker Minimum Wage Ordinance, sets a higher minimum wage and healthcare contribution for non-managerial workers at hotels with 60 or more rooms, scheduled to reach $30 per hour by July 2028 under Ordinance 188251.
1182.12. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, on and after July 1, 2014, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than nine dollars ($9) per hour, and on and after January 1, 2016, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than ten dollars ($10) per hour. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the minimum wage for all industries shall not be less than the amounts set forth in this subdivision, except when the scheduled increases in paragraphs (1) and (2) are temporarily suspended under subdivision (d). (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.
Full Breakdown
Adopted in 2014 and codified at LAMC Section 186.02, the hotel minimum wage applies to all non-managerial, non-supervisory employees at lodging properties with 60 or more guest rooms inside Los Angeles. As of 2024 the rate sits at $20.32 per hour plus a healthcare premium. Council Ordinance 188251 (2024) phases the wage upward to $22.50 in 2025, $25 in 2026, $27.50 in 2027, and $30 per hour effective July 1, 2028, with a separate $8.35 per hour healthcare contribution. The Office of Wage Standards investigates complaints, audits payroll, and posts annual rate notices.
Violations & Fines
Underpayment exposes operators to back wages, restitution, treble damages, civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation per day, retaliation penalties, and possible suspension of business tax registration certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tipped workers covered?
What if my hotel offers full healthcare?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
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Hotel Living Wage in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle hotel living wage.