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North Carolina
Your Home State — current minimum wage
You live in North Carolina. The state minimum wage is $7.25/hr. This matches the federal minimum — your state has no law setting a higher floor. Cities in your state may require higher local rates.
Current State Minimum Wage
North Carolina follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr. The state does not have its own minimum wage law that exceeds the federal rate.
Tipped Workers & Tip Credit
Tipped employees in North Carolina receive a base cash wage of $2.13/hr. Employers take a tip credit of $5.12/hr, and tips must bring the total to at least $7.25/hr.
Exemptions & Special Worker Rates
Tipped employees receive $2.13/hr; full-time students may be paid 90% of minimum; youth under 20 may earn $4.25/hr for first 90 days. Always check the official North Carolina labor department website for the most current exemption details.
Official State Source
For the most current minimum wage information, visit the official North Carolina labor department page at https://www.labor.nc.gov/workplace-rights/employee-rights-regarding-time-worked-and-wages-earned/minimum-wage-nc.
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State minimum wage rates change frequently — always verify on the official state labor department site before relying on these figures. Rates reflect 2025–2026 where available. This map shows only the statewide minimum; many cities (Seattle, Denver, NYC, etc.) require higher local rates. Federal minimum wage is $7.25/hr.