The minimum wage in California, effective January 1, 2025, is $16.50 per hour for all employers regardless of size. There are higher minimum wages for specific sectors such as fast food and healthcare workers, but the general statewide minimum wage is $16.50/hour starting in 2025. Local cities and counties within California may have higher minimum wages that employers are required to pay if applicable. So, the baseline minimum wage across California for 2025 is $16.50/hour. This is the most current and official figure for the state minimum wage in 2025.
