The New York state minimum wage has been updated for 2025, and workers, employers, and anyone who relies on an hourly wage should be aware of the changes.
New rates went into effect on January 1, 2025, and they vary depending on the region, type of employment, and whether or not the worker receives tips. Here’s a clear and up-to-date summary of how much you should earn this year.
General minimum wage by region in 2025
The minimum wage in New York is not the same throughout the state. It is divided into three major regions.
New York City (all employers): $16.50 per hour
Long Island and Westchester County: $16.50 per hour
Remainder of New York State: $15.50 per hour
These rates will be effective from January 1 to December 31, 2025. Beginning in 2026, the Northeast region will see an automatic annual increase based on the three-year moving average of the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W).
What about workers who receive tips?
Tipped workers, such as those working in restaurants or beauty salons, have varying minimum wage rates. Employers may apply a “tip credit” in these cases, as long as the worker receives enough tips to cover the full minimum wage.
Example of rates for tipped workers in 2025:New York City and Long Island/Westchester:
Service workers: $13.75 in cash + $2.75 in tips
Food workers: $11.00 cash + $5.50 tips
Rest of the state:
Service workers: $12.90 in cash + $2.60 in tips
Food workers: $10.35 in cash + $5.15 in tips
It is important to note that only employers in the hospitality industry can apply for this type of credit.
What happens if you are not paid the minimum wage?
The New York State Department of Labor takes minimum wage violations extremely seriously. If an employer fails to pay what is owed, they may face civil and criminal charges.
Employees have the right to file a complaint and, in many cases, recover unpaid wages, interest, and other damages.
To file a complaint, call 1-888-4NYSDOL (1-888-469-7365) or go to the official Department of Labor website.
How is the future minimum wage calculated?
Starting in 2027, the New York minimum wage will be automatically adjusted each year based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).
This means that increases will be directly proportional to the cost of living, in order to protect workers’ purchasing power in the long run.
The New York minimum wage for 2025 reflects an effort to keep workers’ incomes in line with the cost of living, particularly in high-cost regions such as New York City and Long Island.
Whether you are an hourly worker, a tipped employee, or an employer, you must be aware of the current rates and ensure they are met.
Stay informed, check your pay stubs, and don’t hesitate to take action if you believe you are not receiving what you are entitled to. Minimum wage is a right, and in 2025, that right is more obvious than ever.
