In 2025, Georgia remains one of the few states with a minimum wage below the federal standard. With a state minimum wage of $5.15 per hour, Georgia’s rate applies only in specific circumstances. Most employers in the state are required to adhere to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, which has not been updated since 2009. This disparity positions Georgia at the bottom of the national ranking for worker compensation and has been a focal point of labor movements and strikes.
This post explores the Georgia minimum wage for 2025, its history, exemptions, strikes advocating for higher wages, and how it compares to national and state wage trends.
What Is the Minimum Wage in Georgia for 2025?
The Georgia minimum wage in 2025 remains $5.15 per hour, which is one of the lowest state-level minimum wages in the United States. However, the majority of workers in Georgia are subject to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour due to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
For tipped employees, Georgia follows the federal tipped minimum wage standard, which is $2.13 per hour. Employers are required to ensure that tips bring total earnings up to at least $7.25 per hour.
Worker Strikes and Movements for Higher Wages in Georgia
Georgia has witnessed several worker strikes and demonstrations aimed at increasing the minimum wage, often tied to the broader “Fight for $15” movement. These labor actions highlight the growing dissatisfaction with stagnant wages and the challenges faced by low-income workers.
1. Fast-Food Worker Strikes (Atlanta, 2015–2023)
Fast-food workers in Atlanta have been at the forefront of strikes advocating for a $15 minimum wage. Employees from chains like McDonald’s and Burger King have participated in nationwide protests, walking off the job to demand higher pay and improved working conditions.
- Outcome: While Georgia has not increased its state minimum wage, these strikes have influenced public discourse and encouraged some companies to raise their wages voluntarily.
2. Amazon Warehouse Walkouts (Stone Mountain, 2020–2022)
Warehouse workers at Amazon facilities in Georgia joined strikes to demand fair wages and safer working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers called for higher pay to match the physically demanding nature of their jobs.
- Outcome: Amazon raised its starting pay to $15 per hour nationwide in 2021, benefitting many workers in Georgia.
3. Healthcare Worker Protests (2021–2022)
Nursing home and healthcare workers in Georgia staged demonstrations to demand better wages and staffing levels, particularly in response to the increased workload during the pandemic. These strikes underscored the financial strain on essential workers earning near-minimum wages.
- Outcome: While there was no state-mandated wage increase, some healthcare providers raised wages to attract and retain staff.
Historical Minimum Wage Data for Georgia (2007–2025)
Georgia’s minimum wage has not increased in decades, reflecting the state’s decision to adhere primarily to federal standards. Here’s how Georgia compares over time:
The state minimum wage of $5.15 applies only to certain exempt workers, making it functionally obsolete for most jobs in Georgia.
Exemptions and Special Cases
While the Georgia minimum wage for 2025 technically stands at $5.15 per hour, the following exemptions mean that many workers earn even less or are excluded from wage laws entirely:
- Small Businesses: Employers with annual revenues below $500,000 and no interstate commerce activities may pay the state minimum wage.
- Tipped Employees: Paid a base rate of $2.13 per hour but must earn at least $7.25 per hour with tips included.
- Youth Wage: Workers under 20 may earn a training wage of $4.25 per hour during their first 90 days of employment.
- Independent Contractors: Not covered by minimum wage laws as they are classified as self-employed.
- Agricultural and Domestic Workers: Specific exemptions apply to these categories under federal and state guidelines.
For more details, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.
Who Oversees the Minimum Wage in Georgia?
The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) is responsible for ensuring compliance with wage laws within the state. However, most workers fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which enforces the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
Workers who believe their wages are not in compliance with either state or federal laws can file complaints with the GDOL or the DOL.
Comparing Georgia Minimum Wage to Other States
Lowest in the Nation
Georgia’s minimum wage of $5.15 per hour ties with Wyoming for the lowest state minimum wage in the United States. However, both states defer to the federal minimum wage for most workers.
Comparison to Leading States
- Washington: $16.58 per hour in 2025 (Rank #1).
- California: $16.50 per hour in 2025 (Rank #2).
- Florida: $14.00 per hour in 2025 (Rank #8).
The Georgia minimum wage for 2025 is less than a third of Washington’s leading rate, illustrating significant disparities in wage policies across states.
Why Hasn’t Georgia Increased Its Minimum Wage?
Georgia’s stagnant wage policies reflect a historically pro-business stance, emphasizing low operating costs for employers. Critics argue that this approach harms workers, especially in urban areas like Atlanta, where the cost of living continues to rise. The federal minimum wage, unchanged since 2009, also contributes to the lack of wage growth in Georgia.
How Inflation Impacts Georgia’s Minimum Wage
Since the federal minimum wage was last increased in 2009, inflation has risen by approximately 44.7%. Meanwhile, the Georgia minimum wage for 2025 remains at $5.15 per hour, effectively reducing its purchasing power significantly.
Conclusion
The Georgia minimum wage for 2025 of $5.15 per hour highlights the state’s reliance on federal wage laws, leaving most workers at $7.25 per hour. Worker strikes and movements, such as fast-food demonstrations in Atlanta and warehouse walkouts, underscore the growing dissatisfaction with stagnant wages. As debates around wage policy continue nationwide, Georgia faces increasing pressure to update its minimum wage standards to address income inequality and support its growing workforce.
For more details, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.