North Carolina Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for North Carolina’s wage policy in 2026.
$7.25
Current Minimum Wage
$7.25
Projected 2026 Rate
$2.13
Tipped Worker Rate
None
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
North Carolina has no state minimum wage above the federal floor and preempts local minimum wages. The Research Triangle and Charlotte have strong labor markets where actual wages are significantly above the legal minimum, but service workers statewide often earn near the floor.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $7.25/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $2.13/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | None |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $7.25/hour |
| Legislative Source | Federal floor |
Political Context
North Carolina Republicans have blocked minimum wage increases and preempted local authority. Democrats have proposed increases in every legislative session without success. The issue is a clear partisan line with Republicans citing business competitiveness.