California has one of the highest minimum wages in the country. Some cities, like Los Angeles, have a minimum wage that’s even higher than the state minimum. Some labor unions have negotiated higher minimum wages for their members.
Of course, the minimum wage isn’t anywhere near enough to support a family – or in many cases even a single person. A person who works full-time at minimum wage earns about $33,000 a year. The average cost of living in California is over $53,000 a year.
The state minimum wage automatically increases every year to adjust for inflation. Currently, it’s $16 per hour. It’s scheduled to increase to $16.50 in 2025. However, if a measure on the ballot this November (Proposition 32) passes, the minimum wage increases would be greater for most employees.
What would Prop 32 change?
Specifically, businesses with more than 25 employees would be required to raise the minimum wage to $17 immediately and then to $18 in January. Those with 25 or fewer employees would have to start paying at least $17 per hour in January and then $18 in January 2026. After that, the amount of annual adjustment would be tied to the inflation rate.
If this ballot measure passes, millions of workers across California who work in grocery stores, restaurants and other businesses that commonly don’t pay above minimum wage would get a raise. Not surprisingly, those opposing the measure include the California Grocers Association, California Restaurant Association and California Chamber of Commerce.
Most workers expect and deserve to earn more than the minimum wage – particularly after being in a job for some time. However, it’s still crucial to know what the minimum wage is for your job. As noted here, there’s not just one minimum wage for all hourly California workers. If you believe your employer isn’t paying you a fair wage and your efforts to address the issue haven’t been successful, it’s worth learning more about your rights.