California Statewide Rule

California Statewide Minimum Wage Floor

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across California (2026)

Key Facts

Statewide Rate (2026): $16.90/hour
Statute: Labor Code 1182.12
Fast Food Rate: $20/hour
Local Higher Allowed: Yes

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: California Labor Code 1182.12

Summary

California sets a statewide minimum wage floor under Labor Code 1182.12, $16.90 per hour for all employers as of January 2026. Local governments are not preempted and may set higher minimums; many cities exceed the state rate substantially.

(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: (A) From January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2017, inclusive,-ten dollars and fifty cents ($10.50) per hour.

Source: California Labor Code 1182.12View official code

Full Breakdown

Labor Code 1182.12 establishes the statewide minimum wage with annual indexed adjustments tied to inflation. As of January 1, 2026, the rate is $16.90 per hour for all California employers. Sector-specific minimums apply: $20 for fast-food workers under AB 1228 (Labor Code 1474) and a healthcare minimum phasing up to $25 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 & Penalties

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is California's minimum wage in 2026?

$16.90 per hour for all employers as of January 1, 2026, under Labor Code 1182.12. Fast-food workers earn a $20 minimum and covered healthcare workers are phasing up to $25 under sector-specific laws.

Can California cities set higher minimum wages?

Yes. State law establishes a floor, not a ceiling. Many California cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Berkeley enforce higher local minimum wages.

Sources

California Labor Code

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