How is Seattle's minimum wage different from Washington state's in 2026?

Washington's statewide minimum is $17.13 per hour; Seattle requires $21.30 for employers of every size. Tukwila ($21.65) is currently the state's highest local rate.

Does Washington allow a tip credit?

No. Tipped employees must receive the full applicable minimum wage — state or local — before tips.

What is the exempt salary threshold in Washington in 2026?

$80,168.40 per year ($1,541.70 per week) — 2.25 times the state minimum wage, applying to employers of all sizes in 2026.

When is Washington's next minimum wage announced?

The Department of Labor & Industries announces the next year's CPI-adjusted rate around September 30; it takes effect January 1.

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Washington Minimum Wage (2026)

Effective January 1, 2026 · verified as of July 5, 2026

State minimum wage: $17.13 / hour
Tipped minimum: No tip credit — tipped employees receive the full $17.13 / hour
Exempt salary threshold: $80,168.40 / year ($1,541.70/wk; 2.25× state minimum)

Local rates & notes

Seattle: $21.30 / hour
Tukwila: $21.65 / hour (currently the state's highest)
SeaTac, Renton, Bellingham, Everett, Burien, and unincorporated King County set their own higher minimums.

Frequently asked questions

How is Seattle's minimum wage different from Washington state's in 2026?: Washington's statewide minimum is $17.13 per hour; Seattle requires $21.30 for employers of every size. Tukwila ($21.65) is currently the state's highest local rate.
Does Washington allow a tip credit?: No. Tipped employees must receive the full applicable minimum wage — state or local — before tips.
What is the exempt salary threshold in Washington in 2026?: $80,168.40 per year ($1,541.70 per week) — 2.25 times the state minimum wage, applying to employers of all sizes in 2026.
When is Washington's next minimum wage announced?: The Department of Labor & Industries announces the next year's CPI-adjusted rate around September 30; it takes effect January 1.

Source: WA L&I (lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/wages/minimum-wage). State rate re-confirmed 2026-07-02. (The $126,858.83 figure seen elsewhere is WA's non-compete threshold, not the overtime exempt threshold.)

Get notified when Washington changes its rate

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