Everett minimum wage rises July 1

Everett will implement a minimum wage increase to $20. 24 per hour for workers at large employers starting July 1, following voter approval of a city initiative last fall. This change aims to enhance the economic conditions for minimum wage earners in the region. Small businesses will have until July 2027 to adjust their wages to meet the new requirement, while mid-sized employers with more than 15 employees will need to provide at least $18. 29 per hour by 2026.

The new wage structure specifies that service tips will not be factored into the wage calculation, allowing them to be treated as extra income. An opposing measure from the hospitality association sought to include tips in wage calculations, highlighting the ongoing debate over fair compensation in the service industry. Comparatively, Seattle's minimum wage is slightly higher at $20. 76 for large companies. This adjustment reflects a broader trend toward increasing wages in urban areas to match rising living costs.

As the minimum wage landscape evolves, the implications for local businesses and workers will continue to unfold.