Florida workers are seeing a pay increase this month as the state’s minimum wage hits $15 per hour — the final step in a multi-year plan approved by voters.
On November 3, 2020, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment to gradually raise the state minimum wage each year until reaching $15 per hour. That milestone arrives September 30, 2026.
A years-long road to $15
The path to $15 per hour didn’t happen overnight. The wage has climbed steadily, with the most recent increase bringing it from $14 per hour — where it stood as of September 30, 2025 — to $15 per hour this month.
But for many people, the question isn’t just about getting an extra dollar an hour.
It’s about how far that money actually goes.
Residents News4Jax spoke with say they support workers making more money, but rising prices across the board continue to put pressure on budgets.
Going forward, the minimum wage will no longer follow a fixed schedule. Beginning in 2027, Florida’s minimum wage will be adjusted annually based on inflation.
“$15 was cool like five years ago when we first started talking about it, but in today’s climate, that’s not even close,” Robert Robinson said.
“I think with the increase of pricing of food, gas, living, especially in Jacksonville, with a lot of people moving to the area, I don’t believe so,” Donovan Aldridge said.
“It’s already hard. I think for some people who make more than that, especially if you have kids or other dependents. And I couldn’t imagine trying to support myself on $15 an hour,” Katie Miller said.
What employers need to know
Florida employers are required to pay the state minimum wage for all hours worked in Florida. The definitions of employer, employee and wage follow those established under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA.
Employers are also required by law to post a minimum wage notice in a conspicuous and accessible place at each worksite. The notice is available in English, Spanish and Creole through the Florida Department of Commerce’s website.
Rules for tipped employees
The wage increase also affects tipped workers, though the math works a bit differently for them.
Employers of tipped employees who qualify for a tip credit under the FLSA may apply that credit toward the minimum wage requirement. The allowable FLSA tip credit is $3.02 — the rate established in 2003 — meaning tipped employees must receive a minimum direct wage of $11.98 per hour as of September 30, 2026.
Enforcement options for workers
Workers who believe they are not being paid the correct minimum wage have legal options available to them.
Employees may bring a civil action against any employer or individual found to be violating Florida’s minimum wage law. The state Attorney General, or another official designated by the state legislature, may also file a civil action to enforce compliance.
For FLSA guidance and compliance assistance, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s website at dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa.
Where to find more information
Employers can download the required Florida minimum wage poster in English, Spanish and Creole from the Florida Department of Commerce at floridajobs.org.
The required federal minimum wage poster is available through the U.S. Department of Labor at dol.gov/agencies/whd/posters/flsa.
For additional workforce data and economic research, visit the Florida Department of Commerce, Bureau of Workforce Statistics and Economic Research at floridajobs.org/workforce-statistics.
