Good news for millions of American workers on January 1, 2026: these are the cities where wages will increase to as much as $18.92 per hour

As the new year begins, a wave of minimum-wage increases will take effect in dozens of states, cities, and counties across the United States, bringing much-needed relief to many low-wage workers.

According to a recent report by the National Employment Law Project (NELP), at least 68 jurisdictions, including 19 states and 49 local governments, will raise their minimum wage on January 1, 2026.

For many areas, the base wage floor will rise to at least $15 per hour. But there are several jurisdictions where things get significantly better: in roughly three states and 40 localities, workers will see hourly minimum pay climb to $17 or more.

A standout example: in New Jersey, long-term care workers will receive $18.92 an hour starting January 1.

Meanwhile, in parts of New York City, Long Island and Westchester, the minimum wage will go up to $17.00 per hour.

Localities in the U.S. West are also seeing hikes: for instance, some cities in California will boost their baseline pay according to employer size, although statewide the minimum will rise to $16.90/hr.

The current federal minimum wage, a measly $7.25 per hour, has not changed since 2009. With surging inflation and rising living costs propelled by Trump’s archaic economics, many low-wage workers have struggled to make ends meet. These state and local increases are one of hopefully more steps toward restoring some measure of purchasing power for millions.

According to NELP, these changes are often driven by inflation-indexed raises, newly passed legislation, or voter-approved ballot measures. “Policies increasing the minimum wage have been a lifeline for underpaid workers who have been the most impacted by a growing affordability crisis,” the report states.

Related stories

Lottery

Powerball winning numbers

Society

State of the wage gap

NELP researcher Tsedeye Gebreselassie told CBS News that “the contrast between states and cities that are raising wages every year and those that are stuck at $7.25 is really jarring,” adding that “On the one hand, the lack of affordability is about things costing too much, but on the other hand, it means people are not earning enough money to buy things.”

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.