Seattle’s minimum wage is one of the country’s highest at $20.76 in 2025, but it will go up even more starting on the first of January. In addition to minimum wage increases, there are several new laws going into effect in Washington State in 2026. Take a break from your holiday shopping and December festivities to read our quick recap and stay informed!
Read on for all the details.
Seattle’s minimum wage increase in 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, Seattle’s minimum wage will increase to $21.30 per hour, one of the highest in the country. The rise follows the city’s annual policy that ties wages to the regional Consumer Price Index to keep pay in line with inflation. Mayor Bruce Harrell praised the change as a sign of Seattle’s commitment to supporting workers, saying that it “showcases the city’s continuing commitment to building a city where all workers are treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve.” Some restaurant owners worry about the impact on small businesses but supporters, including tenant and social service advocates, hope the higher wage will help residents better afford rising housing costs.
Meanwhile, it may surprise you to learn that Seattle doesn’t have the highest minimum wage rate in the state. That honor goes to Tukwila, located just south of Seattle. Tukwila will boast the highest minimum wage in Washington at $21.65 per hour.
Washington State’s minimum wage increase in 2026
Although it’s not as high as Seattle’s, Washington State has one of the highest minimum wages in the country. Washington’s minimum wage will increase from $16.66 to $17.13 per hour on January 1, 2026, reflecting a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment. The law applies to most workers in the state, including part-time, full-time, and seasonal employees. Washington also prohibits tip credits, so employers must pay the full minimum wage regardless of tips. As a result, servers, bartenders, and other hospitality workers will see their base pay rise to $17.13 per hour before tips.
New laws in WA in 2026
Washington State will introduce several new laws in 2026, ranging from categories like workplace safety and job protections to fair pay—here’s a quick recap…