Numerous Local Minimum Wages Poised to Increase Effective July 1, 2025
Updated Provided by:
Grant C. Furukama
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
On July 1, 2025, multiple California cities and counties will implement mid‑year minimum wage increases. These adjustments generally reflect shifts in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and are designed to help employees keep pace with inflation. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the jurisdictions that will raise their minimum wage:
Jurisdiction | New Rate (July 1, 2025) |
Alameda | $17.46 / hour |
Berkeley | $19.18 / hour |
Emeryville | $19.90 / hour |
Fremont | $17.75 / hour |
Los Angeles (citywide) | $17.87 / hour |
LA County (unincorp. areas) | $17.81 / hour |
Milpitas | $18.20 / hour |
Pasadena | $18.04 / hour |
San Francisco | $19.18 / hour |
Santa Monica | $17.81 / hour |
Malibu (suspended)* | Remains $17.27 / hour |
*The Malibu City Council voted 4-1 on May 21, 2025 to suspend the scheduled minimum wage increase in light of the Palisades fire.
Employers should keep an eye on California’s ever-evolving minimum wage laws to ensure their pay practices are compliant. Failing to pay the correct wage can expose employers to penalties, backpay liability, and costly litigation. The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) maintains a minimum wage website, which links to the following website that tracks local city and county minimum wage rates: https://laborcenter.berkeley.edu/inventory-of-us-city-and-county-minimum-wage-ordinances/#s-2
For additional information, or if you need assistance in these areas, please contact the author of this blog or your usual employment law attorney.