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South Carolinaminimum wage inCalifornia
$15.00+/hr — high state minimum, well above federal

California

Minimum Wage
$16.90/hr
Tipped Wage
No tip credit
CPI Indexed
Yes

Current State Minimum Wage

California's minimum wage is $16.90/hr, effective Jan 1, 2026. This rate is automatically adjusted annually for inflation (CPI-indexed). Recent change: Increased from $16.50 to $16.90 on Jan 1, 2026.

Tipped Workers & Tip Credit

California does not allow a tip credit. Tipped employees must be paid the full state minimum wage of $16.90/hr before tips.

Higher City & Local Minimums

Some cities in California have local minimum wages higher than the state rate: San Francisco: $18.87/hr; Los Angeles: $17.28/hr; San Jose: $17.55/hr; Berkeley: $18.67/hr; West Hollywood: $19.08/hr. Employers must pay the highest applicable rate.

Exemptions & Special Worker Rates

No tip credit allowed; learners may be paid 85% for first 160 hours; some nonprofit exemptions. Always check the official California labor department website for the most current exemption details.

Official State Source

For the most current minimum wage information, visit the official California labor department page at https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/faq_minimumwage.htm.

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Law last updated: 2026Row last reviewed: May 9, 2026

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.