The Seattle minimum wage for 2026 is $21.30 per hour, $4.17 more than the Washington state minimum of $17.13 and well above the $7.25 federal floor. Highest big-city minimum in the country.
All employers for work performed in Seattle. No tip credit; tipped workers get the full local minimum wage, plus tips.
Seattle wage details
City minimum wage
$21.30 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
All employers for work performed in Seattle.
Seattle vs. state vs. federal
| Level | 2026 minimum wage |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $21.30 per hour |
| Washington | $17.13 per hour |
| Federal | $7.25 per hour |
Employers must pay the highest rate that applies, so in Seattle that is the $21.30 city rate.