Tennessee Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for Tennessee’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
Tennessee has no state minimum wage beyond the federal floor. The state is one of five without a state minimum wage law. Nashville’s strong economy has pushed market wages above the minimum, but statewide minimum wage reflects the conservative political environment.
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
Tennessee Republicans have strongly opposed minimum wage increases. Nashville and Memphis have discussed local minimums but state preemption blocks local action. The state’s significant manufacturing base includes workers earning above federal minimum.