DENVER (KDVR) — Denver’s minimum wage will increase again in 2026, but it won’t be as much of an increase as in previous years.
After the Denver Revised Municipal Code Chapter §58-16 was created in 2019, a local minimum wage for Denver was set with required annual adjustments based on certain factors. In 2025, the minimum wage was set to $18.81 and $15.79 for tipped food and beverage workers.
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On Thursday, the City and County of Denver said the minimum wage will increase to $19.29 starting on Jan. 1, 2026, and tipped workers earn $16.27 per hour.
“Whether it’s raising pay or lowering rent, we’re committed to doing everything we can to make Denver more affordable,” said Mayor Mike Johnston. “Our minimum wage has created new opportunity for Denver residents, and we will continue to work towards commonsense solutions that ensure wages stay high, costs stay low, and businesses stay open.”…