Maryland Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for Maryland’s wage policy in 2026.
$15.00
Current Minimum Wage
$15.50 (est.)
Projected 2026 Rate
$3.63
Tipped Worker Rate
CPI-indexed from 2025
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
Maryland raised its minimum wage to $15 in 2023, with CPI indexing thereafter. The state phased in the increase over several years. Maryland has a strong labor market in the DC suburbs with many workers already earning above the minimum.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $15.00/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $3.63/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | CPI-indexed from 2025 |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $15.50 (est.)/hour |
| Legislative Source | RAISE Act (2022) + CPI |
Political Context
Maryland Democrats under Governor Moore have continued minimum wage expansion. The DC suburb economy creates upward wage pressure regardless of legal minimums. Minimum wage is more significant for retail and service workers in less affluent parts of the state.