Multiple jurisdictions throughout Washington state have established minimum wages that exceed the state-mandated level. Burien leads the way with the highest minimum wage in the state at $21.16 per hour for large employers, while Tukwila follows closely behind, with workers at major companies earning a minimum of $21.10 per hour.
Beginning next week, Washington’s minimum wage, along with those in several cities including Seattle, will increase as a response to inflation adjustments. The minimum wage in Washington will rise to $16.66 per hour starting January 1, marking a 2.35% increase from 2024. This adjustment is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, as provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A significant change to minimum wage regulations will take effect in Seattle in January. The baseline wage will rise to $20.76 per hour for all employees, irrespective of whether they receive tips. Previously, small businesses were permitted to pay workers $17.25 per hour if tips were included in their wages or if the business contributed to medical benefits.
As a result of this change, restaurant workers will see an hourly pay increase of over $3, representing the largest wage hike since the implementation of the $15 minimum wage a decade ago. Additionally, employees at large businesses in Seattle and non-tipped workers will experience an approximate 4% wage increase.
Several other cities have enacted minimum wage ordinances this year, raising wages above the state level. In November, Everett voters approved a minimum wage initiative, which will take effect in July. Renton voters also approved a minimum wage measure in February.
Below is a summary of Washington jurisdictions with minimum wages that differ from the state level, along with the wage rates set for 2025, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries:
– Everett: Effective July 1, 2025, the minimum wage will be $20.24 per hour for employers with more than 500 employees, and $18.24 for those with between 15 and 500 employees. Employers with 14 or fewer employees are not affected.
– Bellingham: $17.66 per hour from January 1 to April 20, 2025, and $18.66 per hour from May 1 to December 31, 2025.
– Burien: $21.16 per hour for employers with over 500 employees, and $20.16 per hour for businesses with 21 to 499 employees. Small employers are exempt from this regulation.
