Washington’s minimum wage will rise 2.8% next year, to $17.13 an hour, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) announced Tuesday. L&I adjusts the minimum wage based on the percentage increase in the CPI-W.Washington’s current state minimum wage of $16.66 is the highest in the nation. More information about the minimum wage is available on L&I’s website, along with details about overtime, rest breaks, meal periods, and how to file a wage complaint. Young workersEmployers are allowed to pay 85% of the minimum wage to workers ages 14-15, so the minimum wage for those younger workers will be $14.56 an hour in 2026. Minimum pay for rideshare driversThe minimum pay rideshare drivers will earn is also going up Jan. 1.