California Minimum Wage Updates - July 2026
Posted June 23, 2026
As July approaches, local jurisdictions in California are preparing to implement their scheduled minimum wage increases. To support employers and community partners in staying informed and compliant, this update summarizes some of the changes taking effect, outlines key local adjustments, and provides clarity on what to expect as the new wage rates roll out statewide.
Local Minimum Wage Updates Effective July 1, 2026
If your business employs workers, including remote employees, in any of the locations listed below, ensure their hourly wages meet or exceed the updated local rates by July 1, 2026.
- Alameda: $17.76
- Berkeley: $19.61
- Emeryville: $20.34
- Fremont: $18.05
- Los Angeles City: $18.42
- Los Angeles County, unincorporated: $18.47
- Malibu: $17.91
- Milpitas: $18.50
- Pasadena: $18.57
- San Francisco: $19.61
- Santa Monica: $18.47
Industry-Specific Minimum Wage Rates
In addition to the local rates noted above, there are also higher rates going into effect in certain industries:
Hotel Workers
- Glendale, for hotels with 60 rooms or more: $25
- Long Beach, for hotels with 100 rooms or more: $26.50
- City of San Diego, for hotels with 150 rooms or more: $19
- West Hollywood, for all hotels regardless of size: $20.87
- Santa Monica, for all hotels regardless of size: $25
- City of Los Angeles, for hotels with 60 rooms or more: $25 with health benefits
- City of Los Angeles, for hotels with 60 rooms or more: $29.25 without health benefits
Health Care Workers
For Safety Net Hospitals, see FAQ 14 of the DIR Health Care Worker Minimum Wage Frequently Asked Questions.
This article only addresses some of the minimum wage increases that are effective on July 1, 2026. Other cities and counties increase their wages every January 1. A complete list of the various cities and counties within California can be found here. The DIR Health Care Worker Minimum Wage Frequently Asked Questions can be found here.
Be sure to review all possible local, state, and federal minimum wage laws that might apply to your employees, and remember that sick time rules may differ depending on the local jurisdiction and the location of your workers.
For questions about employment law issues, contact the attorneys at LightGabler LLP.