New Year New Pay: Minimum Wage Increase

By Y.M. Lowy

Starting January 1, 2025, New Yorkers earning minimum wage will get a raise of $0.50 per hour. The new rate will be $16.50 per hour in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, while workers in the rest of the state will earn $15.50 per hour.

This increase is part of a long-term plan to keep wages in line with rising living costs. Governor Kathy Hochul explained that the goal is to put more money in workers’ pockets while giving businesses time to adjust. “This increase will help lighten the burden of inflation for New Yorkers,” she said.

And there’s more good news: the minimum wage will go up again by another $0.50 in 2026. Starting in 2027, wages will increase every year based on inflation.

If you’re a minimum wage worker and don’t see the raise in your paycheck, you can report it to the New York State Department of Labor by calling 833-910-4378. 

This wage increase is a step forward for workers across New York, helping families keep up with the rising cost of living.