For those interested in the history of the California minimum wage, the California Department of Industrial Relations provides a historical perspective in table format. The minimum wage information takes us back to 1916 when the minimum wage was $0.16. According to the published information, the largest percentage increase in the California minimum wage occurred in 1947; at that time California's minimum wage increased from $0.45 to $0.65 (44.4%). 

In 2025, the statewide minimum wage in California is $16.50 per hour. Note that certain cities may require a minimum wage that is higher than the state minimum wage. According to the State of California Department of Industrial Relations, "The minimum wage in California, effective January 1, 2025, is $16.50/hour for all employers. Fast Food Restaurant employers, effective April 1, 2024, and Healthcare Facility employers, effective October 16, 2024 (see below), have a higher minimum wage."

The Kingsley Szamet Employment Lawyers vigorously represent employees that work under substandard unlawful minimum wage conditions. Our Los Angeles law firm helps fight against employers that do not comply with the law. In certain cases, the employer attempts to gain a competitive advantage at the expense of their workers.

As an employee in California you have rights. If your employer fails to comply with California minimum wage standards, please fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced prevailing wage lawyers. 

Historical Minimum Wage Dates

Below you can find effective dates with some of the historical minimum wage rates listed for California.  Information is sourced from the State of California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) among other sources. 

• January 1, 2023: $15.50
• January 1, 2018: $10.50 if 25 employees or less, $11.00 if 26 employees or more
• January 1, 2017: $10.00 if 25 employees or less, $10.50 if 26 employees or more
• January 1, 2016: $10.00
• July 1, 2014: $9.00
• January 1, 2008: $8.00
• January 1, 2007: $7.50
• January 1, 2002: $6.75
• January 1, 2001: $6.25
• March 1, 1998: $5.75
• September 1, 1997: $5.15
• March 1, 1997: $5.00
• October 1, 1996: $4.75
• July 1, 1988: $4.25
• January 1, 1981: $3.35
• January 1, 1980: $3.10
• January 1, 1979: $2.90
• January 1, 1979: $2.90
• October 18, 1976: $2.50
• March 4, 1974: $2.00
• February 1, 1968: $1.65
• August 30, 1964: $1.30
• August 30, 1963: $1.25
• November 15, 1957: $1.00
• August 1, 1952: $0.75
• June 1, 1947: $0.65
• February 8, 1943: $0.45
• 1920: $0.33
• 1919: $0.28
• 1918: $0.21
• 1916: $0.16

Sources:

California Department of Industrial Relations
City of Long Beach

Related Topics:

What Are My Rights As An Employee in California