The Santa Monica minimum wage for 2026 is $18.47 per hour, $1.57 more than the California state minimum of $16.90 and well above the $7.25 federal floor. Rose to $18.47 on July 1, 2026.
All employers for work performed in Santa Monica. No tip credit; tipped workers get the full local minimum wage, plus tips.
Santa Monica wage details
City minimum wage
$18.47 per hour
Next scheduled change
Adjusts annually on July 1.
Set by
Local ordinance
Tipped employees
No tip credit; tipped workers get the full local minimum wage, plus tips.
Who it applies to
All employers for work performed in Santa Monica.
Special local rates
Rates above the standard Santa Monica minimum
- Hotel workers: $25.00 as of July 1, 2026.
Santa Monica vs. state vs. federal
| Level | 2026 minimum wage |
|---|---|
| Santa Monica | $18.47 per hour |
| California | $16.90 per hour |
| Federal | $7.25 per hour |
Employers must pay the highest rate that applies, so in Santa Monica that is the $18.47 city rate.