Minimum wage will increase across much of the country in 2026, with raises scheduled in dozens of states, cities and counties as inflation and rising living costs continue to pressure workers’ paychecks.
According to a new report from the National Employment Law Project, minimum wage hikes will take effect in 19 states and 49 cities and counties by the end of 2026, starting on Jan. 1. In 60 jurisdictions, minimum wage will hit $15 or higher, while in three states and 40 localities, wages will reach $17 or higher.
What is Alabama’s minimum wage, and will there be an increase in 2026? Here’s what we know.
Currently, Alabama follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
Alabama is not scheduled to raise its minimum wage in 2026.
The state does not have its own minimum wage law, meaning most employers and employees in the state are subject to the federal minimum wage. That rate has remained unchanged since 2009 and is expected to remain in place through 2026.
Unlike states with automatic cost-of-living adjustments or voter-approved wage increases, Alabama’s minimum wage can only change if Congress acts to raise the federal wage floor.
Here are the states set to see minimum wage increases effective Jan.1:
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