Top 10 US cities and counties with minimum wages over $20

While the federal minimum wage in the United States has remained unchanged at $7.25 per hour since 2009, many states and cities have taken matters into their own hands by raising their minimum wages to help residents earn a more sustainable living. On January 1, 2025, 21 states increased their minimum wage rates, with notable hikes in Alaska, where the new rate is $11.91 per hour, Connecticut at $16.35 per hour, and Nebraska at $13.50 per hour. In addition to state-level changes, cities and counties across the country have also been increasing their minimum wage rates, often surpassing state levels. The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) has been tracking these local wage increases, with some areas setting minimum wages near or above $20 per hour. Among the highest local minimum wages, Washington state and California stand out. In Tukwila, Washington, the minimum wage is $21.10 per hour, followed closely by Renton at $20.90 and Seattle at $20.76. King County, SeaTac, and Burien also boast minimums exceeding $20 per hour. In California, West Hollywood, Emeryville, Mountain View, and Sunnyvale have minimums close to or above $19 per hour. Other cities across the country are approaching the $20 mark, such as Denver, Colorado, where the minimum wage is $18.81, and Flagstaff, Arizona, with $17.85 per hour. According to EPI, 67 localities have adopted minimum wages higher than their state's official rate, and many are expected to raise their wage floors later in 2025. As more cities and states continue to increase their minimum wages, the movement toward $20 per hour is gaining momentum, ensuring that many workers will see higher pay by the end of 2025.