Ohio Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for Ohio’s wage policy in 2026.
$10.70
Current Minimum Wage
$11.00 (est.)
Projected 2026 Rate
$5.35
Tipped Worker Rate
CPI-indexed
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
Ohio voters passed Issue 2 in 2006 to raise the minimum wage with CPI indexing. This voter-enacted floor has ensured gradual increases over nearly 20 years without requiring legislative action. Ohio minimum wage significantly exceeds the federal floor.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $10.70/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $5.35/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | CPI-indexed |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $11.00 (est.)/hour |
| Legislative Source | Issue 2 (2006) + CPI |
| Passed by Ballot Initiative | 2006 |
Political Context
Ohio minimum wage CPI indexing has kept wages rising without political battles, a model other states have adopted. Some Ohio cities have pushed for higher local minimums. The legislature preempts local authority, a source of ongoing tension.