From 1st January 2026, Washington state will raise its minimum wage by 2.8%, bringing the new hourly rate to $17.13. This move, announced by the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I), keeps Washington at the top in terms of minimum wage rates across the U.S.
The increase is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W), which tracks changes in the cost of living for working households.
Washington’s Minimum Wage Leads the Nation
While the federal minimum wage has stayed stuck at $7.25 per hour since 2009, Washington continues to take big steps ahead. This new rate of $17.13 per hour is the highest in the country, offering better pay to low-income workers. What’s more, many cities in Washington—like Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, Renton, and Bellingham—already have local laws that require even higher wages.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Location | Minimum Wage (2026) |
|---|---|
| Washington State | $17.13 per hour |
| Seattle | Higher local rate |
| Federal Rate | $7.25 per hour |
New Salary Rules for Overtime-Exempt Workers
This wage hike also affects salaried workers who are exempt from overtime—like managers, professionals, and computer specialists. From 2026, employers in Washington must pay these workers at least 2.25 times the minimum wage.
That means:
- Minimum weekly salary: $1,541.70
- Annual salary: $80,168.40
- For computer professionals: Minimum hourly pay will be $59.96
These rules are part of a phased plan that will continue until 2028, eventually setting the salary threshold at 2.5 times the minimum wage.
Wage Changes for Teen Workers and App Drivers
Younger workers aged 14–15 will earn 85% of the standard minimum wage, which works out to $14.56 per hour in 2026.
Drivers working with app-based services like Uber and Lyft will also get a raise. The new rates are split based on location:
In Seattle:
- $0.70 per minute
- $1.63 per mile
- Minimum per trip: $6.12
Outside Seattle:
- $0.40 per minute
- $1.38 per mile
- Minimum per trip: $3.55
This ensures gig workers earn fair pay for their time and fuel expenses.
New Rules for Non-Compete Agreements
From 2026, stricter limits will apply to non-compete clauses in employment contracts. These clauses are only valid if:
- The employee earns at least $126,858.83 per year
- Independent contractors earn over $317,147.09 annually
These thresholds aim to protect workers from being unfairly restricted by their employers.
Support for Workers and Labor Rights
Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries is committed to ensuring that workers receive fair wages and their rights are protected. Employees who believe they’re being underpaid or mistreated at work can file complaints, which the agency will fully investigate.
Washington state’s 2026 wage updates reflect its strong stand for fair pay and labor rights. By boosting the minimum wage and setting clearer rules for salaried employees, young workers, app drivers, and contract terms, the state is helping workers cope with rising living costs. These changes not only offer better earnings but also bring more clarity and fairness to the workplace.
FAQ
Q1: What is Washington’s minimum wage in 2026?
A: From January 1, 2026, Washington’s minimum wage will increase to $17.13 per hour.
Q2: Are there higher local minimum wages in some Washington cities?
A: Yes. Cities like Seattle, SeaTac, and Tukwila have their own higher minimum wage rates.
Q3: How much will salaried exempt workers need to earn in 2026?
A: They must earn at least $1,541.70 per week or $80,168.40 per year to be exempt from overtime.
Q4: What is the new pay structure for Uber and Lyft drivers in Washington?
A: In Seattle, they’ll earn $0.70/min and $1.63/mile. Outside Seattle, it’s $0.40/min and $1.38/mile.
Q5: What is the salary limit for enforcing non-compete clauses in 2026?
A: For employees, it’s $126,858.83 annually; for contractors, it’s $317,147.09.
