The Howard County minimum wage for 2026 is $16.00 per hour, $1.00 more than the Maryland state minimum of $15.00 and well above the $7.25 federal floor.
Applies to employers with 15 or more employees. Tipped cash wage is $3.63; the employer must make up any shortfall to the full $16.00 minimum.
Howard County wage details
City minimum wage
$16.00 per hour
Next scheduled change
January 1, 2027
Set by
Local ordinance
Tipped employees
Tipped cash wage is $3.63; the employer must make up any shortfall to the full $16.00 minimum.
Who it applies to
Applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
Howard County vs. state vs. federal
| Level | 2026 minimum wage |
|---|---|
| Howard County | $16.00 per hour |
| Maryland | $15.00 per hour |
| Federal | $7.25 per hour |
Employers must pay the highest rate that applies, so in Howard County that is the $16.00 city rate.