The King County minimum wage for 2026 is $20.82 per hour, $3.69 more than the Washington state minimum of $17.13 and well above the $7.25 federal floor.
Applies in unincorporated King County; size-tiered. No tip credit; tipped workers get the full local minimum wage, plus tips.
King County wage details
City minimum wage
$20.82 per hour
Next scheduled change
January 1, 2027
Set by
Local ordinance
Tipped employees
No tip credit; tipped workers get the full local minimum wage, plus tips.
Who it applies to
Applies in unincorporated King County; size-tiered.
King County vs. state vs. federal
| Level | 2026 minimum wage |
|---|---|
| King County | $20.82 per hour |
| Washington | $17.13 per hour |
| Federal | $7.25 per hour |
Employers must pay the highest rate that applies, so in King County that is the $20.82 city rate.