California Minimum Wage (2026)
Built & reviewed by Nandu Kannan · Overtime rules cited to primary statutes
California's minimum wage is $16.90 an hour in 2026. California's $16.90 is a statewide floor — many cities and some industries (fast food, health care) require more.
California minimum wage vs. the federal minimum
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour. California's effective minimum is $16.90 — $9.65 above the federal floor. Where state and federal minimums differ, employers must pay whichever is higher.
Minimum-wage pay & overtime
At $16.90 an hour, overtime (1.5×) is $25.35 per hour. 1.5× after 8 h/day & 40 h/week, 2× after 12 h/day, plus the 7th-consecutive-day premium. Run your own numbers with the California overtime calculator or convert it to a yearly figure with the salary to hourly calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in California in 2026?
The minimum wage in California is $16.90 per hour as of 2026. California's $16.90 is a statewide floor — many cities and some industries (fast food, health care) require more.
How much is California's minimum wage per year?
At $16.90 an hour, full-time (40 hours a week, 52 weeks) is about $35,152 a year before taxes, or $676 a week.
Is California's minimum wage higher than the federal minimum?
Yes. California's $16.90 is above the federal minimum of $7.25. When state and federal minimums differ, employers must pay the higher rate.
What is overtime pay on California's minimum wage?
Overtime is 1.5× your regular rate, so a minimum-wage worker at $16.90 earns $25.35 per overtime hour. 1.5× after 8 h/day & 40 h/week, 2× after 12 h/day, plus the 7th-consecutive-day premium.
Rate as of January 2026, from the U.S. Department of Labor. Cities and counties may set higher local minimums, and rates change — confirm with your state labor office. General information, not legal or payroll advice.
Related
What's a minimum-wage paycheck after taxes in California?
Minimum wage by state · California overtime · Overtime by state · Salary to Hourly