Hawaii Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for Hawaii’s wage policy in 2026.
$14.00
Current Minimum Wage
$16.00
Projected 2026 Rate
$12.75
Tipped Worker Rate
$1 increase to $18 by 2028
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
Hawaii enacted minimum wage increases via legislation in 2022, reaching $18 by 2028. The state has among the highest living costs in the nation, making even the higher minimum wage insufficient for many workers. Tourism industry employment concentrates low-wage workers.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $14.00/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $12.75/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | $1 increase to $18 by 2028 |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $16.00/hour |
| Legislative Source | HB 2510 (2022) |
Political Context
Hawaii Democrats have pursued ambitious minimum wage increases to address the severe cost of living crisis. Critics argue even $18 is insufficient in Honolulu. The tourism economy creates political pressure from hotel and restaurant industry employers.