July Minimum Wages Increase

You may have blinked and realized that half of 2024 is already behind us. However, July 1 is an important date this year, as it marks many new compliance deadlines for California employers. This includes the brand new Workplace Violence Prevention Plan requirements, a new ban on hidden fees, and also local minimum wage increases.

Several jurisdictions throughout the state have implemented mid-year minimum wage increases, beyond the State’s required rate ($16/hour), which was last updated on January 1, 2024.

Do You Know Where Your Remote Workers Reside?

When determining if a local minimum wage applies to your business, remember to consider your non-exempt (hourly) remote and hybrid workers who may be living/working in a geographic location different from your main office location or headquarters. Local minimum wage ordinances are based on where your worker is physically working. Also, any hourly employees who are sent to visit a client or do any work in a city or county with a higher minimum wage, may be entitled to a higher pay rate during those working hours if they are there for 2 hours or more.

Mid Year Wage Increases Taking Effect on July 1 Include:

Northern California	Southern California
Alameda: $17.00	Los Angeles City: $17.28
Berkeley: $18.67	Los Angeles County (unincorporated areas): $17.27
Emeryville: $19.36	Malibu: $17.27
Fremont: $17.70	Pasadena: $17.50
Milpitas: $17.70	Santa Monica: $17.27
San Francisco (city): $18.67	West Hollywood Hotels: $19.61

Don’t forget that when a wage increase comes into effect, employers must ensure that wage statements are updated and issue non-exempt employees a revised Wage Theft Protection Act Notice (under Labor Code section 2810.5). This notice should reflect the new rate of pay and overtime rates, and must be issued within seven calendar days after the time of the changes. Local government websites also provide required minimum wage postings.

For a list of all current local minimum wages in effect, CEA members may refer to our Local Minimum Wage Fact Sheet on our HR forms page.