Santa Clara Minimum Wage 2026 and 2027
The Santa Clara minimum wage has been $18.70 per hour since January 1, 2026, $1.80 above the state rate of $16.90. It rises to $19.25 on January 1, 2027. Increases every January 1. Official source linked.
- Increase cycle
- every January 1
- Increase note
- Posted in city news '2027 Minimum Wage Update' https://www.santaclaraca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/45715/3171 : $19.25. City site HTTP 403 to fetch; from search index
- Note
- enforced by San Jose OEA
- Source
- https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/government/governance/city-initiatives/minimum-wage-ordinance
- Checked
- 2026-10-09 Official page not machine-checked · cross-checked
This jurisdiction's official site blocks automated access, so the figure was cross-checked against county reference charts and search indexes. Check the source link above before changing payroll.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Santa Clara minimum wage in 2026?
$18.70 per hour since January 1, 2026. That is $1.80 above the California state minimum wage ($16.90).
When does the Santa Clara minimum wage go up?
It is adjusted every January 1. It becomes $19.25 per hour on January 1, 2027.
Which workplaces does the Santa Clara ordinance cover?
It applies to employees who work inside the jurisdiction's boundaries (where the work is done, not the employer's mailing address). Note: enforced by San Jose OEA. If the boundary is unclear, look up the address.
Does the state or the local minimum wage apply?
Whichever is higher. If the state minimum wage rises above the local rate, the state rate applies from that date.
Industry-specific rates
- California Fast Food Minimum Wage (AB 1228) $20.00 — if your business is in this industry, this rate can take precedence over the local one.
- California Health Care Worker Minimum Wage (SB 525) $25.00 — if your business is in this industry, this rate can take precedence over the local one.
Nearby cities
- Novato $17.46
- Daly City $17.50
- Redwood City $18.65
- Los Altos $18.70
- Richmond $19.18
- Mountain View $19.70
- Menlo Park $17.55
- Milpitas $18.50
- Full list →