New Minimum Wage for Washington in 2026

The minimum wage will rise 47 cents beginning January 1, 2026, to $17.16 per hour. This is just a starting base point in the state, because some cities and municipalities can set their minimum wages higher based on their cost of living.

That's why one city might offer a job at a higher wage than someone living in a small town who does the exact same job position. Say you are a receptionist, for example. You would get paid more for the same job in Seattle , than say you would in Yakima because the cost of living is so much lower (yet rent prices keep on rising regardless, grrr).

Read More: Washington's Minimum Wage Set to Rise in January 2026

Did You Know: Washington's minimum wage is $16.66 per hour, Oregon's basic state minimu

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