West Virginia Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage, scheduled increases, tipped worker rules, and political context for West Virginia’s wage policy in 2026.
$8.75
Current Minimum Wage
$8.75
Projected 2026 Rate
$2.62
Tipped Worker Rate
None
Scheduled Increases
Minimum Wage Overview
West Virginia raised its minimum wage to $8.75 in 2016, above the federal floor. No further increases have been enacted. West Virginia minimum wage significantly below most comparable states.
Wage Policy Details
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Minimum Wage | $8.75/hour |
| Tipped Worker Minimum | $2.62/hour |
| Scheduled Increases | None |
| Projected 2026 Rate | $8.75/hour |
| Legislative Source | State law (2016) |
Political Context
West Virginia Democrats passed the 2016 increase when they had more legislative influence. Since Republicans have taken control, no further increases have occurred. Senator Manchin’s centrist influence on federal minimum wage legislation made West Virginia relevant to national wage debates.