New Jersey Minimum Wage Rises to $16.48 on Jan. 1
Starting Jan. 1, 2027, New Jersey’s minimum wage for most workers rises 56 cents to $16.48 an hour.
The state Department of Labor and Workforce Development sets the rate each year based on Consumer Price Index increases, as required by the state constitution.
More New Jersey Wage Increases to Note
Separate minimum wage rates also take effect Jan. 1:
- Workers at seasonal businesses and businesses with fewer than six employees: $16.25, up from $15.23
- Farm workers paid hourly or piece rate: $15, up from $14.20
- Direct care staff at long-term care facilities: $19.48, up from $18.92, and
- Tipped workers’ minimum cash wage: $6.61, up from $6.05. The maximum tip credit stays at $9.87.
Employers must cover any shortfall when a tipped worker’s cash wage plus tips falls below the state minimum wage.
More info: New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
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