The minimum wage in New York State in 2026 depends on where you work in the state and your job type.

Quick Scoop: New York Minimum Wage (2026)

As of January 1, 2026, the basic hourly minimum wage is:

  • $17.00 per hour in:
    • New York City
    • Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk counties)
    • Westchester County
  • $16.00 per hour in:
    • All other parts of New York State

For most people asking “what is the minimum wage in New York,” the headline answer is:

It’s $17.00/hour in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester, and $16.00/hour in the rest of the state in 2026.

A Few Extra Details (Useful to Know)

  • These rates took effect January 1, 2026 and are scheduled to stay in place through December 31, 2026.
  • New York has special rules for tipped workers (like restaurant servers and some service staff), where employers can take a tip credit as long as your tips plus cash wage meet at least the full minimum wage.
  • For example in NYC in 2026, a tipped food service worker can be paid a lower cash wage (like around $11.35/hour in cash plus tips) as long as it adds up to at least the $17.00/hour minimum.

If you tell me what city or county you’re in and what kind of job, I can narrow it down more precisely (including whether tip credits might apply).