California Minimum Wage 2026: $16.90/hr

Last updated: June 2026 — Source: California Department of Labor

California has its own minimum wage law. The state rate of $16.90/hr applies to most covered employees.

Minimum Wage

$16.90

per hour

Tipped Wage

No tip credit

Full minimum wage required

Effective Date

2026-01-01

California Overtime Rules

Weekly overtime threshold 40 hours
Daily overtime threshold 8 hours (1.5x)
Double time threshold 12 hours/day (2x)
State overtime law Yes — state law

California has the most protective overtime laws. Daily OT: 1.5x for hours 8-12; 2x (double time) for hours beyond 12. Weekly OT: 1.5x for hours over 40. 7th consecutive day: 1.5x for first 8 hours, 2x after 8 hours. Alternative workweek schedules may apply with employee agreement.

Additional Information

California adjusts annually for inflation (CPI). No tip credit allowed — tipped employees must receive the full minimum wage. Fast food workers have a separate higher minimum ($20.00/hr under AB 1228). Some cities (SF, LA, San Jose) have higher local rates.

Official source: California Department of Labor · Overtime: state labor standards

Data sourced from official state labor department websites and the US Department of Labor (dol.gov). Last updated: June 2026. Calculator results are estimates for informational purposes only. For disputes involving unpaid wages or wrongful termination, consult a licensed employment attorney in your state.

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