If you’re a small‑business owner in Oregon or Washington, minimum wage rules can feel like a moving target — especially when rates change by city, county, or even which side of the street you’re on. Here’s a straight‑talk breakdown of what’s changing in 2026 and how it may affect your business.
Oregon: Minimum Wage Goes Up July 1, 2026
Good reminder for Oregon employers: minimum wage increases every year on July 1, and 2026 is no exception. The rate depends on where the work is performed, not where your business is headquartered.
Oregon’s New Rates (Starting July 1, 2026)
- $15.55/hour – Standard rate
This applies to most Oregon counties and areas outside the Portland metro urban growth boundary. - $16.80/hour – Portland Metro rate
This applies to work done inside the urban growth boundary in parts of Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties. - $14.55/hour – Non‑urban (rural) rate
This applies to designated rural counties like Douglas, Klamath, Baker, Grant, and others.
Washington State: Rates Set for All of 2026
Washington’s statewide minimum wage went up on January 1, 2026, and it stays the same for the rest of the year—unless a city or county requires a higher amount.
Washington Statewide Minimum Wage (2026)
- $17.13/hour for employees age 16 and older
- $14.56/hour for employees ages 14–15
Here is a link to review which cities in Washington require paying more than the state minimum wage – https://lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/wages/minimum-wage/local-minimum-wage-rates
Make sure you are reviewing all rates and paying all employees at or above the required minimum wage.
If you have any questions, please contact our office.