Massachusetts Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for Massachusetts’s wage policy in 2026.
$15.00
Current Minimum Wage
$15.00+
Projected 2026 Rate
$6.75
Tipped Worker Rate
None (reached $15 in 2023)
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
Massachusetts raised its minimum wage to $15 in 2023 via legislation. The state previously passed increases via ballot initiative. There is ongoing pressure to raise the minimum above $15, with some advocacy for $20 or higher given the state’s extreme cost of living.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $15.00/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $6.75/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | None (reached $15 in 2023) |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $15.00+/hour |
| Legislative Source | H.4543 (2018) + voter initiative history |
Political Context
Massachusetts Democrats continue to push above $15, given Boston-area living costs. The tipped worker minimum at $6.75 is contested — One Fair Wage campaign advocates for eliminating the tip credit. The restaurant industry strongly opposes full tip credit elimination.