Hawaiʻi’s minimum wage increases to $16 on Jan. 1

Hawaiʻi’s statewide minimum wage rate will increase to $16 per hour effective Jan. 1, 2026. This marks the third step in a series of scheduled increases, culminating in a final rate of $18 per hour on Jan. 1, 2028. In addition, the 2025 Legislature enacted Act 115, establishing a minimum civil penalty of $500 for employers who violate the Wage and Hour Law.

“The Legislature’s phased approach to increasing the minimum wage is designed to support working families and foster economic stability in Hawaiʻi,” said Jade T. Butay, DLIR director. “These penalties serve as a deterrent and help ensure fairness for all employers who comply with wage laws.”

For more information about Hawaiʻi’s Wage and Hour Law, visit: https://labor.hawaii.gov/wsd/