California Local Minimum Wage Poster 2026

As of January 1, 2026, California’s statewide minimum wage is $16.90 per hour. This rate acts as the starting point across the state. However, when a local government sets a higher wage, that higher rate applies instead.

California labor laws give cities and counties the authority to set higher local minimum wages. These local rates often reflect higher living costs in certain areas. As a result, employees may earn different minimum wages depending on where they work, even within the same county or region.

California’s diverse economy makes local wage rules especially common compared to many other states.

No. Minimum wage rates vary across California.

Some cities follow the state minimum, while others set higher local rates. In some areas, the rate also depends on employer size or the type of work, such as special rules for hotel or hospitality employees.

Cities like Santa Monica apply separate minimum wage rules for hotel and hospitality workers, often well above the state minimum.

The California Local Minimum Wage Poster 2026 lists local minimum wage rates by city and county across the state. Each entry shows the wage amount, who the rate applies to, and the most recent update date.

The poster covers major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and San Diego, along with many smaller jurisdictions and special wage rules where they apply.