This year the largest minimum wage increase Florida residents have ever seen Since the federal minimum wage last increased to $7.25 per hour in 2009 many states including Florida have taken steps to ensure fairer wages for their workers.
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Florida’s Minimum Wage Increase in 2025
In November 2020 Florida voters approved Amendment 2. which laid out a plan to raise the state’s minimum wage annually until it reaches $15 per hour by 2026. This steady rise ensures better wages for workers across the state.
Effective Date: On September 30, 2025, the state minimum wage will increase to $14 per hour.
Tipped Employees: Tipped workers will earn $10.98 per hour starting the same day.
This year’s increase is part of the state’s commitment to improving wages and ensuring workers can meet the rising cost of living.
Future Wage Increases for Florida Residents
The journey toward a $15 minimum wage will culminate on September 30, 2026 when Florida’s minimum wage reaches the goal set by 2. Here is what to expect in the coming years:
2026: Minimum wage will hit $15 per hour and tipped employees will earn $11.98 per hour
2027 and Beyond: Adjustments will be tied to changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) ensuring wages keep pace with inflation and rising expenses.
What Happens After 2026?
Once Florida’s minimum wage reaches $15 per hour future increases will be based on the Consumer Price Index. This approach ensures that wages grow in line with the cost of living helping residents maintain their purchasing power.
Living Wage vs Minimum Wage in Florida
While the minimum wage is increasing it’s still important to understand that it may not align with what’s considered a living wage. A living wage reflects the amount needed to cover basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare.
According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator:
- For a single adult without children the living wage in Florida is $22.43 per hour.
- For an adult with one child it’s $37.27 per hour.
- For an adult with two children, it’s $45.36 per hour.
- With three children it rises to $58.76 per hour.
These figures highlight the gap between the minimum wage and what many families actually need to make ends meet..
Table: Key Details About Florida’s Minimum Wage Increases
| Year | Minimum Wage | Tipped Wage | Adjustment Basis |
| 2025 (Sept. 30) | $14.00/hour | $10.98/hour | Fixed increase |
| 2026 (Sept. 30) | $15.00/hour | $11.98/hour | Fixed increase |
| 2027 onward | CPI-based | CPI-based | Consumer Price Index |
Who Is Not Covered by Florida’s Minimum Wage Laws?
Certain workers and situations are exempt from Florida’s minimum wage laws. These include:
- Executive, administrative, and professional employees
- Commissioned sales employees
- Farm workers and seasonal employees
- Babysitters and other informal workers
- Workers at nonprofit organizations under certain conditions
- Employees of businesses earning less than $50,000 annually
These exemptions mean that not all workers will benefit from the state’s minimum wage increases.
For more updates on financial support initiatives, explore our article on California Sends Out January 2025 Stimulus Checks of $725.
FAQs
1. When will Florida’s minimum wage increase in 2025?
On September 30, 2025 Florida’s minimum wage will rise to $14 per hour.
2. What is the tipped employee minimum wage in 2025?
Tipped workers will earn $10.98 per hour starting September 30, 2025.
3. What happens after the minimum wage reaches $15?
From 2027 wage increases will be tied to the Consumer Price Index to keep up with inflation.
4. What is the difference between a minimum wage and a living wage?
A minimum wage is the lowest legal hourly pay while a living wage is what someone needs to cover basic expenses like housing and food.
Final Words
The minimum wage increase Florida residents will see in 2025 is another step toward better financial stability for workers across the state. While it’s not yet at the level of a living wage, these annual raises are helping bridge the gap. With further increases scheduled through 2026 and adjustments based on inflation thereafter, Florida is working to ensure fair wages for its residents. Stay informed and take advantage of these changes to plan for a brighter financial future.