Seattles minimum wage in 2026 21.30

Seattle's minimum wage will rise to $21. 30 per hour on January 1, 2026, as announced by the Office of Labor Standards. This increase of 2. 6% aligns with the inflation rate based on the Consumer Price Index for the region. The wage applies universally to all employees, regardless of immigration status, reinforcing the city's commitment to equitable labor standards.

This development marks ten years since Seattle's initial implementation of a $15 minimum wage, a campaign championed by Councilmember Kshama Sawant. Following a phased approach, Seattle reached the $15 mark for most businesses by 2021, with large employers paying $16. 69. Last year, attempts to roll back some wage changes faced strong resistance, demonstrating the community's commitment to maintaining higher wage standards. The city will mail revised workplace posters to businesses to inform them of the new wage.

These adjustments highlight the ongoing evolution of labor policies in Seattle and their impact on local workers.