New Jersey’s minimum wage will rise again in 2026, marking the final scheduled increase under Governor Phil Murphy before he leaves office.
Beginning January 1, 2026, the minimum wage for most workers across the state will increase to $15.92 per hour, a 43-cent rise from the current rate. Since Murphy took office in 2018, New Jersey’s minimum wage has increased by $7.32 per hour, fulfilling his commitment to reach and exceed the $15 threshold by 2025.
Different wage structures will continue to apply to certain categories of workers, including farm laborers, tipped employees, and caregivers. Some of these groups are scheduled to see larger or phased-in increases under existing state law.
The 2026 increase will be the last enacted before Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill takes office. Her inauguration is scheduled for January 20, 2026, in Newark.
After reaching the $15 benchmark, New Jersey law tied future minimum wage adjustments to inflation. This system remains in effect, ensuring that the minimum wage continues to reflect changes in the cost of living for workers statewide.
