Minimum wage workers will earn more beginning New Year’s Day.
On January 1, the state’s minimum wage will increase by $0.50 to $16.50 per hour in New York City, Westchester, and Long Island and $15.50 for the rest of the state.
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “In this current era of inflation and rising costs, every cent counts for all New Yorkers, especially workers who earn minimum wage. By gradually increasing wages for the lowest earners, we are ensuring businesses can adjust to the change while also helping more families make ends meet. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the Legislature for working together to strengthen the paychecks of New Yorkers statewide.”
The minimum wage will increase by another $0.50 in 2026. After that, the amount will increase at a rate determined by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers for the Northeast Region, keeping pace with inflation.
“Putting money back in your pockets has been the focus of my first three Budgets, and that includes increasing minimum wage for the lowest earners across the state,” Governor Hochul said.“With rising costs of living, this increase will help to lighten the burdens of inflation for New Yorkers while providing businesses with the time needed to adjust.”
The governor added that an “off-ramp” is available should certain economic or budget conditions arise.
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