July Minimum Wages Increase

July sure brought the heat. Along with Independence Day, it also marked many new compliance deadlines for California employers. You’ve likely heard about the brand new Workplace Violence Prevention Plan requirements and the new Indoor Heat Illness rules, but did you hear about the local minimum wage increases that took effect on July 1, 2024?

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. Take a peek below to make sure you are in compliance.

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 depending on the local ordinance’s language.

 

Mid Year Wage Increases Effective as of 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: $17.30	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.