As of January 1, 2025, the New Jersey minimum wage is $15.13 per hour, reflecting an increase from the 2024 rate. New Jersey has been steadily raising its minimum wage as part of a phased plan to ensure fair pay for workers while keeping up with inflation and economic demands.
New Jersey’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour, offering better financial security for employees across various industries, including retail, healthcare, and hospitality.
What Is the Minimum Wage in New Jersey in 2025?
The New Jersey minimum wage for 2025 is $15.13 per hour, effective January 1, 2025. However, different wage rates apply to specific worker categories:
- Tipped Employees: Employers can pay tipped workers a base wage of $5.26 per hour, but their total earnings (wage + tips) must reach at least $15.13 per hour. If tips do not meet this amount, the employer must cover the difference.
- Seasonal & Small Business Workers: Employees working for small businesses (fewer than six employees) and seasonal workers have a lower minimum wage but still receive scheduled increases.
- Agricultural Workers: Farmworkers are subject to a lower minimum wage, though they also receive annual adjustments.
Historical Minimum Wage Data for New Jersey (2017–2025)
New Jersey’s minimum wage has increased significantly in recent years due to legislative changes. Below is a breakdown of minimum wage growth:
How Does New Jersey’s Minimum Wage Compare to Other States?
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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.)
- New Jersey: $15.13 per hour (#6 in the U.S.)
- Georgia & Wyoming: $5.15 per hour (but most workers follow the federal rate of $7.25)
Who Oversees the Minimum Wage in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) enforces state wage laws, employer compliance, and worker protections.
Key responsibilities include:
✔ Ensuring wage increases are implemented properly.
✔ Handling worker complaints regarding wage violations.
✔ Monitoring wage laws for specific industries, such as seasonal and farmworkers.
Employers must display minimum wage notices in the workplace.
Are There Any Movements or Strikes for Higher Wages in New Jersey?
New Jersey has seen multiple worker-led movements advocating for wage increases, especially in urban areas like Newark and Jersey City.
Recent Worker Protests in New Jersey
Retail and Grocery Worker Strikes (2021–2023)
- Workers from major grocery chains protested for higher wages and better working conditions.
- Outcome: Some companies increased wages ahead of the state’s planned raises.
Fast-Food Worker Walkouts (2022–2024)
- Workers in Newark and Trenton pushed for a $18 minimum wage.
- Outcome: The movement raised awareness, but no immediate legislation was passed.
Warehouse Worker Protests (2023–2024)
- Amazon warehouse workers in Carteret and Robbinsville advocated for higher pay and better conditions.
- Outcome: Some locations introduced wage increases above the state minimum.
New Jersey remains a state with strong labor movements, ensuring workers’ voices are heard.
Conclusion
The New Jersey minimum wage for 2025 is $15.13 per hour, making it one of the top-paying states in the U.S. The state’s annual wage increases help workers keep up with inflation while balancing employer needs.
For workers, this means higher earnings and better financial stability. For employers, it requires payroll adjustments to remain compliant with labor laws.