As of January 1, 2025, the Colorado minimum wage is $15.69 per hour, making it one of the highest in the United States. The state’s wage policies ensure that workers earn wages that keep up with inflation, as Colorado adjusts its minimum wage annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Unlike many states, Colorado mandates a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement of $7.25 per hour, ensuring workers in industries such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare receive fair compensation.
Who Does the Colorado Minimum Wage Apply To?
The Colorado minimum wage for 2025 applies to most employees, with certain exemptions and special wage categories.
Exemptions and Special Cases
- Tipped Workers: Earn $12.68 per hour, with employers ensuring that tips make up the difference.
- Overtime Workers: Earn 1.5x their hourly wage beyond 40 hours per week.
- Youth Workers: Workers under 18 years old may be paid a training wage of $13.50 per hour for their first 90 days of employment.
- Agricultural Workers: Some farmworkers may be subject to different wage laws.
- Independent Contractors: Self-employed workers are not covered by minimum wage laws.
For up-to-date wage laws, visit the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE):
Historical Minimum Wage Data for Colorado (2017–2025)
Colorado’s minimum wage has steadily increased over the years due to inflation-based adjustments. Here’s how the wage has evolved over time:
| Year | Minimum Wage | Tipped Minimum Wage | Yearly Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | $9.30 | $6.28 | 11.1% |
| 2018 | $10.20 | $7.18 | 9.7% |
| 2019 | $11.10 | $8.08 | 8.8% |
| 2020 | $12.00 | $8.98 | 8.1% |
| 2021 | $12.32 | $9.30 | 2.7% |
| 2022 | $12.56 | $9.54 | 1.9% |
| 2023 | $13.65 | $10.63 | 8.7% |
| 2024 | $14.42 | $11.40 | 5.6% |
| 2025 | $15.69 | $12.68 | 8.8% |
Colorado’s minimum wage increases annually based on inflation, making it one of the most stable wage policies in the U.S.
How Does Colorado’s Minimum Wage Compare to Other States?
Colorado ranks among the top 10 states with the highest minimum wages in 2025.
Comparison to the Highest and Lowest Minimum Wages in 2025
- Washington: $16.58 per hour (#1 in the U.S.)
- California: $16.50 per hour (#2 in the U.S.)
- New York (NYC, Long Island, Westchester): $16.50 per hour (#3 in the U.S.)
- Oregon (Portland Metro): $15.95 per hour (#4 in the U.S.)
- Colorado: $15.69 per hour (#5 in the U.S.)
- Georgia & Wyoming: $5.15 per hour (but most workers follow the federal rate of $7.25)
Colorado’s inflation-adjusted minimum wage ensures that it remains competitive while avoiding drastic wage spikes.
Are There Any Movements or Strikes for Higher Wages in Colorado?
Colorado has seen several labor movements advocating for wage increases, particularly in Denver and Boulder, where the cost of living is higher.
Recent Worker Movements in Colorado
Denver Fast-Food Worker Protests (2020–2023)
- Workers protested for a $18 per hour minimum wage to match rising living costs.
- Outcome: Denver set a city-specific minimum wage of $18.29 per hour in 2025.
Healthcare Worker Strikes (2022–2024)
- Nurses and hospital staff demanded higher wages and better working conditions.
- Outcome: Some healthcare providers raised wages independently.
Ski Resort Employee Wage Push (2021–2023)
- Seasonal workers in Aspen and Vail protested for better pay and benefits.
- Outcome: Some resorts voluntarily increased wages.
Colorado remains a state with active labor movements, particularly in urban and resort areas.
Who Regulates the Minimum Wage in Colorado?
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) oversees wage enforcement, employer compliance, and worker protections. They ensure that:
- Employers follow inflation-based wage increases.
- Workers receive at least the required minimum wage.
- Wage complaints and violations are investigated.
Employers are required to post official wage notices in workplaces.