A New Year Brings a Pay Change for Many Minnesota Workers

As another year comes to an end and Minnesota workers look ahead to a fresh start in 2026, many employees across the state will see a pay bump beginning January 1.

State Minimum Wage Increase Takes Effect January 1

Minnesota’s minimum wage is adjusted annually based on inflation, and the upcoming increase reflects rising costs that continue to impact workers statewide. The state’s wage rules are overseen by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, which administers programs covering wage and hour standards, occupational safety and health, workers’ compensation, construction codes, licensing, and youth training initiatives.

For 2025, Minnesota’s minimum wage is set at $11.13 per hour. The state’s 90-day training wage, which applies to certain younger workers during their first 90 consecutive days of employment, currently sits at $9.08 per hour.

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New 2026 Wage Rates Announced

Beginning on New Year’s Day, both wage levels will increase. The standard minimum wage will rise to $11.41 per hour, while the 90-day training wage will increase to $9.31 per hour. These changes apply statewide and reflect the latest inflation adjustment required under Minnesota law.

It is important to note that Minneapolis and St. Paul operate under their own local minimum wage ordinances. Workers in those cities are not covered by the state increase, although they may still see a raise depending on how local wage laws are structured for 2026.

Who the Minnesota Minimum Wage Applies To

Minnesota’s minimum wage laws apply to most workers across the state, regardless of whether they work full-time or part-time. The Department of Labor and Industry also emphasizes that Minnesota’s minimum wage remains higher than the federal minimum wage.

For employees who are covered under both state and federal wage laws, employers are required to pay the higher of the two rates. For many Minnesota workers, that means the new state minimum wage will continue to set the standard heading into 2026.