Washington workers are set to see higher paychecks in 2026 as the state confirms another minimum wage increase tied to inflation. Starting January 1, 2026, the statewide minimum wage will rise again, affecting employees across industries, with even higher rates applying in cities like Seattle, Renton, and parts of King County. While the increase may appear modest compared to previous years, it brings important changes for workers, employers, and overtime rules.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
| Statewide Minimum Wage | $17.13 per hour |
| Under 16 Wage | $14.56 per hour |
| Inflation Adjustment | 2.8% increase |
| Overtime Exempt Threshold | $80,168.40 annually |
| Official Reference | https://www.lni.wa.gov |
Washington’s Minimum Wage
From January 1, 2026, Washington’s minimum wage will increase to $17.13 per hour for workers aged 16 and older. Employees aged 14 or 15 will earn $14.56 per hour, which equals 85% of the standard minimum wage, as permitted under state law.
The 2026 increase reflects a 2.8% year-on-year adjustment, aligning wages with inflation trends in the region. While smaller than the 8.6% jump seen in 2023, it continues Washington’s position as one of the states with the highest minimum wages in the country.
Overtime Exempt Salary
The wage increase also affects overtime exemption thresholds. To qualify as overtime-exempt in Washington, employees must earn at least 2.25 times the state minimum wage, regardless of employer size. In 2026, this means a minimum annual salary of $80,168.40.
Special rules apply to computer professionals paid hourly rather than salaried. Employers must pay these workers at least 3.5 times the minimum wage, translating to $59.96 per hour in 2026. This rule ensures higher-skilled professionals are compensated fairly, even when classified as exempt.
Local Minimum Wage Increases Across Washington
Several cities and counties in Washington set local minimum wages that exceed the state rate. These local increases will also take effect in 2026.
Seattle
Seattle’s minimum wage will rise to $21.30 per hour, regardless of employer size. This marks a 2.6% increase from the 2025 rate of $20.76 and keeps Seattle among the highest-paying cities in the nation for minimum wage workers.
Bellingham
Bellingham’s minimum wage will reach $19.13 per hour, exactly $2 above the state minimum wage. This represents a 2.5% increase over 2025.
Burien
Burien applies different rates based on employer size. Large employers with 500 or more full-time employees must pay $21.63 per hour, while medium-sized employers with 21 to 499 employees must pay $20.63 per hour. Small employers with 20 or fewer employees are exempt from the local ordinance but must still comply with the state minimum wage.
Everett
In Everett, large employers will pay $20.77 per hour starting January 1, 2026. Employers with 15 to 499 employees or annual gross revenues over $2 million must pay $18.77 per hour, increasing again to $19.77 per hour on July 1, 2026.
Renton
Renton’s minimum wage adjusts annually based on regional inflation. In 2026, large employers will pay $21.57 per hour, while medium employers will start at $20.57 per hour, rising to $21.57 per hour on July 1, 2026. Small employers remain subject only to the state minimum wage.
SeaTac
Workers in the hospitality and transportation sectors in SeaTac will earn $20.74 per hour, reflecting a 2.8% increase from 2025.
Tukwila
Tukwila will raise its minimum wage to $21.65 per hour for all employers, regardless of size, representing a 2.6% annual increase.
Unincorporated King County Minimum Wage Rules
Unincorporated King County follows its own wage structure, which varies by employer size and revenue.
| Employer Category | 2026 Minimum Wage |
|---|---|
| 500+ Employees | $20.82 per hour |
| 16–499 Employees | $19.82 per hour |
| ≤15 Employees with $2M+ Revenue | $19.82 per hour |
| ≤15 Employees with under $2M Revenue | $18.32 per hour |
Employers can confirm whether their business is located in an unincorporated area by using King County’s official interactive map.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does Washington’s 2026 minimum wage take effect?
It takes effect statewide on January 1, 2026.
2. What is the new minimum wage in Seattle for 2026?
Seattle’s minimum wage will be $21.30 per hour.
3. Does unincorporated King County have different wage rates?
Yes, rates vary by employer size and annual revenue.
