Los Angelenos and residents of other Southern California communities could see a boost in their paychecks thanks to ordinances that trigger an increase in minimum wage effective July 1.
How much is minimum wage in California 2026?
At the start of 2026, California’s statewide minimum wage increased from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour. However, certain cities have their own specific local ordinance that requires minimum wage increases.
What is the minimum wage in Los Angeles? See rate increases in SoCal
The minimum wage rate in Los Angeles increases by about half a dollar to $18.42 per hour, according to a city document. Workers in unincorporated Los Angeles County will see a minimum wage hike from $17.81 per hour to $18.47 per hour starting July 1.
Not sure whether you work in unincorporated Los Angeles County? Enter the address of where your work is done at lavote.gov or call Los Angeles County’s Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.
Other Southern California cities with minimum wage increases going into effect July 1 include:
- Malibu – $17.91, up from $17.27
- Pasadena – $18.57, up from $18.04
- Santa Monica – $18.47, up from $17.81
Know that there are some wage-related ordinances specific to an industry in California, such as San Diego’s hospitality minimum wage ordinance that establishes rates for employees in amusement parks, event centers and covered hotels.
What is the living wage in Southern California?
The Living Wage Calculator shows what a person working full time must earn hourly to cover basic needs — including food, housing and health care — in their area without depending on public or private assistance. Developed as an alternative to federal poverty standards, the data was updated in February 2026, according to the Living Wage Calculator’s website…