By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
In the United States., there is a rule that sets the lowest amount of money a worker can be paid per hour, according to Bloomberg Law. This rule applies to all workers in the U.S. and its surroundings. However, different states can make their own rules about wages, which means workers in some US states can earn a minimum wage that is higher than the federal minimum wage.
The following are states in the U.S. with the highest minimum wage, according to OppU.
1. Washington
Washington’s minimum wage goes up every year to keep up with the cost of living. This is because prices have been rising a lot in recent years.
It now has the highest minimum wage in the country. Some cities in the state pay even more – like Tukwila, where workers now make at least $21.20 an hour in 2025.
2. California
In California, some workers get paid more than others. For example, people who work in fast-food restaurants ought to be paid at least $20 per hour.
In 2025, the lowest amount most workers in California can be paid will go up to $16.50 an hour.
3. Connecticut
Connecticut’s minimum wage has been going up by $1 each year, and in 2023, it reached $15 per hour. The speculation last year was that the minimum wage would go up by 70 cents every year to make it strong enough to keep up with inflation.
Also, if the federal minimum wage accepted nationwide ever becomes the same as the city’s, the state’s minimum wage will be 0.5% higher than the federal one.
4. New York
New York is another state that has the highest minimum wage in the United States. However, it depends on where you work.
According to ballotpedia.org, workers in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County will get at least $16.50 an hour. In other parts of the state, employees will get at least $15.50 an hour. The reason is because different areas have different costs of living.
5. New Jersey
On January 1, 2025, New Jersey had its minimum wage increased from $15.13 to $15.49 hourly. But in 2019, a new law was passed to slowly raise it to $15 per hour over time.
This is because the cost of living changes each year according to ballotpedia.org.