Effective July 1, 2026, several jurisdictions in California and select states will implement mid-year minimum wage increases. Employers operating in these areas must ensure compliance by updating wage rates accordingly and posting both the local Minimum Wage Order and the applicable Industrial Welfare Commission (IWC) Wage Order in a location accessible to all employees.

California Local Minimum Wage Increases

Below is a list of California cities and counties with updated minimum wage rates: *Note: Rates are subject to change, pending local ordinances and legislation.

Northern California:

• Alameda: $17.76/hour
• Berkeley: $19.61/hour
• Emeryville: $20.34/hour
• Fremont: $18.05/hour
• Milpitas: $18.50/hour
• San Francisco: $19.61/hour

Southern California:

• Los Angeles (City): $18.42/hour
• Los Angeles County (Unincorporated Areas): $18.47/hour
• Malibu: $17.91/hour
• Pasadena: $18.57/hour
• Santa Monica: $18.47/hour
• West Hollywood: $20.25/hour (Hotel Workers: $20.87/hour)

Other States with July 1, 2026 increases:

• Alaska: $14.00/hour
• District of Columbia: $18.40/hour
• Oregon: $14.55, $15.55 or $16.80/hour depending on region

San Diego’s New Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance

Beginning July 1, 2026, San Diego’s Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance sets minimum wage requirements for employees of covered hotels, amusement parks, and event centers within the geographical boundaries of the city. Covered facilities include:

• Hotels with at least 150 guest rooms or suites.
• Amusement parks on at least 75 continuous acres that are open to the public, contain permanent rides, and operate pursuant to a contract with the city.
• The following event centers: PetCo Park, Pechanga Arena, San Diego Convention Center, and Civic Theatre.

The Hospitality Minimum Wage beginning July 1, 2026, is $19/hour for covered hotel and amusement park employees, and $21.06/hour for covered event center employees.  Both wage rates have scheduled annual increases to $25/hour on July 1, 2030, with annual Consumer Price Index-based increases after that.

Employer Reminder

California employers, especially those with remote workers, must verify the local minimum wage applicable to each employee’s work location to remain compliant. Ensure payroll updates are implemented by July 1, 2026.

Additionally, Fast Food workers at chains with 60 or more locations nationwide are subject to a higher minimum wage of $20.00/hour, which became effective April 1, 2024.

If you have any questions or need help understanding how this may affect your business, give FLORES a call. Our HR department would be happy to assist you. Contact us at (619) 588-2411.