by MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota workers will see another bump in their paychecks starting in 2026, as the state prepares to raise its minimum wage to keep pace with inflation. The adjustment, announced by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, will go into effect on January 1, 2026.
Minnesota Minimum Wage Increase
The statewide minimum wage will rise to $11.41 per hour for all employees, up from the current $11.13 per hour that has been in effect since January 1, 2025.
For younger workers, the 90-day training wage for employees under 20 will increase to $9.31 per hour, marking a 2.5% rise. Officials emphasized that the change reflects inflationary adjustments required under state law.
Employers are also reminded that workplaces must display posters informing workers of their rights. An updated version of the minimum wage poster is expected to be available for download this fall.
Minneapolis and St. Paul Minimum Wage
While the statewide increase applies broadly, major cities in Minnesota already have higher minimum wage requirements.
In Minneapolis, the minimum wage currently stands at $15.97 per hour for all workers, regardless of business size.
In St. Paul, rates vary by business size:
- $13.25 for microbusinesses
- $15.00 for small businesses
- $15.97 for large businesses
These city-specific wage standards remain above the state’s baseline, ensuring higher pay for urban workers in Minnesota’s two largest cities.
