As of January 1, 2025, the Massachusetts minimum wage remains $15.00 per hour, maintaining its position as one of the highest state minimum wages in the U.S.
Unlike some states that adjust their minimum wage based on inflation, Massachusetts sets wage increases through state legislation. Over the past decade, the state has steadily increased wages, reaching $15.00 per hour in 2023, where it currently remains.
Who Does the Massachusetts Minimum Wage Apply To?
The Massachusetts minimum wage for 2025 applies to most employees, but there are some exceptions:
- Tipped Employees: Workers in jobs where tipping is common, such as waitstaff and bartenders, must earn at least $6.75 per hour in base pay. Employers are required to ensure their total earnings (wage + tips) meet or exceed $15.00 per hour. If tips do not cover the difference, employers must compensate.
- Overtime Pay: Employees who work more than 40 hours per week are entitled to overtime pay of 1.5 times their regular hourly wage—which means a minimum of $22.50 per hour for overtime.
- Teen 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 farm workers may receive a lower wage under specific conditions.
- Independent Contractors: Self-employed workers are not covered by minimum wage laws.
Historical Minimum Wage Data for Massachusetts (2017–2025)
Massachusetts has steadily increased its minimum wage through legislative action, rather than automatic inflation-based adjustments.
How Does Massachusetts’ Minimum Wage Compare to Other States?
Massachusetts still ranks among the top five highest-paying states in the U.S. in 2025. However, some states have surpassed Massachusetts’ minimum wage due to automatic inflation adjustments.
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.)
- New Jersey: $15.13 per hour (#4 in the U.S.)
- Massachusetts: $15.00 per hour (#5 in the U.S.)
- Georgia & Wyoming: $5.15 per hour (but most workers follow the federal rate of $7.25)
Are There Plans to Increase the Massachusetts Minimum Wage?
As of February 2025, there are no official plans to increase the state minimum wage beyond $15.00 per hour. However, labor groups and policymakers continue discussions on possible adjustments, including automatic cost-of-living increases in future years.
