Minimum Wage to Increase to $15.50 For Upstate on January 1st

Workers in the state who earn minimum wage will see a .50 cents increase per hour beginning on January 1st, the Governor’s Office says. The minimum wage for Upstate New York will now be $15.50. For New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, the minimum wage will increase to $16.50 per hour.

“In this current era of inflation and rising costs, every cent counts for all New Yorkers, especially workers who earn minimum wage. By gradually increasing wages for the lowest earners, we are ensuring businesses can adjust to the change while also helping more families make ends meet.”

Said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon.

The minimum wage will increase by another 50 cents at the start of 2026 and then increase annually beginning in 2027 at a rate determined by the Consumer Price Index. Employers within the state may find additional information regarding state minimum wage by clicking HERE.