Gavin Newsom announces California's statewide minimum wage will rise to $17.40 per hour in 2027.
California will increase its statewide minimum wage to $17.40 per hour starting January 1, 2027. This new rate will be the highest statewide minimum wage in the country at the time of implementation, surpassing current rates in states like Washington and Connecticut. The increase is automatic under state law, which requires annual adjustments to keep pace with inflation. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the increase while contrasting it with the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Newsom noted that while the administration and Republicans have historically blocked federal wage increases, California is prioritizing working families. Fast-food workers in California already receive a higher minimum wage of $20 per hour, which took effect in 2024. Additionally, healthcare workers saw a2027 increase on July 1, with wages ranging from $19.28 to $25 per hour depending on the facility.