Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Minimum Wage and Local Authority

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Key Facts

2026 minimum wage: $17.13 per hour
Local wages: Cities may set higher rates
Tip credit: None allowed in Washington
Youth rate: 85% for ages 14-15
Enforcement: Labor and Industries

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Washington State Legislature

Summary

Washington RCW 49.46 sets a statewide minimum wage adjusted annually for inflation; as of 2026 it is $17.13 per hour. Washington does not preempt local minimum wages, so several cities set higher rates.

On September 30, 2020, and on each following September 30th, the department of labor and industries shall calculate an adjusted minimum wage rate to maintain employee purchasing power by increasing the current year's minimum wage rate by the rate of inflation. The adjusted minimum wage rate shall be calculated to the nearest cent using the consumer price index for urban wage earners and clerical workers, CPI-W, or a successor index, for the twelve months prior to each September 1st as calculated by the United States department of labor. Each adjusted minimum wage rate calculated under this subsection (2)(b) takes effect on the following January 1st.

Source: Washington State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Washington's Minimum Wage Act (RCW 49.46) sets a statewide minimum wage adjusted each January based on the Consumer Price Index. As of 2026 it is $17.13 per hour, among the highest state minimums nationally. Washington does not preempt local minimum wage ordinances, so Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, Bellingham, Renton, and Burien have adopted higher local rates. No tip credit is allowed, so tipped employees receive the full minimum wage. Workers aged 14 to 15 may be paid 85 percent ($14.56 in 2026). The Department of Labor and Industries enforces wage requirements.

Violations & Penalties

Employers paying below minimum wage face back wage liability, double damages, attorney fees, and civil penalties under RCW 49.46.100. Willful violations may include criminal misdemeanor penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Washington cities set higher minimum wages?

Yes, Washington does not preempt local minimum wage ordinances. Several cities have higher rates than the state minimum.

Are tipped workers paid less than minimum wage?

No, Washington requires the full minimum wage for all employees regardless of tips. There is no tip credit.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.