Oregon and Florida are among the states making significant changes to their minimum wage this year. On July 1, Oregon will increase its base pay from $14.70 per hour, while Florida plans to raise its minimum wage from $13 to $14 per hour on September 30. These changes are part of a broader trend across the United States, where many states and localities are adjusting their minimum wage rates to reflect changing economic conditions.
The federal minimum wage has remained stagnant at $7.25 per hour since 2009, prompting states and cities to take action independently. As of January 1, 21 states have already increased their minimum wage, impacting more than 9.2 million U.S. workers. Among these states, Washington state boasts the highest minimum wage at $16.66 per hour, outstripping other states like Alaska and Arizona with minimum wages of $11.91 and $14.70, respectively.
In addition to states, cities and localities are also setting new benchmarks for minimum wages. Currently, 48 cities and localities have raised their minimum wages. Washington, D.C., will see its minimum wage rise to $17.50 per hour on July 1, while Flagstaff, Arizona, and Seattle have set notably high rates at $17.85 and $20.76 per hour, respectively. These figures illustrate a growing movement towards higher pay in urban areas where the cost of living is typically more demanding.
California, known for its high cost of living, has set its minimum wage at $16.50 per hour. However, it is not the highest in the nation as cities like Seattle lead with even more substantial rates. The trend of increasing minimum wages is expected to continue as several states plan additional hikes later this year.