Florida workers are set to receive another pay bump in 2025 as the state continues its path toward a $15 minimum wage. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming wage increase and how it impacts both employees and businesses.
In 2020, Florida voters approved a plan to gradually raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2026. As part of this schedule, the next increase will take effect on September 30, 2025, bringing the minimum wage to $14 per hour, up from $13 in 2024.
For tipped workers, such as servers and bartenders, the minimum cash wage will also increase. Currently set at $9.98 per hour, it will rise to $10.98 per hour in September 2025. Employers are still allowed to apply a $3.02 tip credit, meaning tipped employees must earn at least $14 per hour when tips are included.
Why Is the Minimum Wage Increasing?
This wage increase is part of Amendment 2, which Florida voters passed in November 2020. The amendment laid out a schedule of annual wage hikes, with the goal of reaching a $15 per hour minimum wage by 2026. After that, future increases will be tied to inflation.
The intent behind these raises is to help workers keep up with rising living costs and reduce income inequality across the state. Florida is one of several states implementing gradual minimum wage increases to provide a better financial foundation for workers.
What Employers Need to Know
Businesses should prepare for this increase by adjusting payroll systems and updating employee wage information. Additionally, Florida law requires companies to display updated labor law posters reflecting the new wage rates. Employers who fail to comply with wage laws may face fines and legal consequences.
What’s Next?
This is the second-to-last scheduled wage increase before Florida reaches the $15 per hour minimum wage in 2026. After that, annual adjustments will be based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to ensure wages keep up with inflation.
For now, workers can look forward to higher pay, while businesses must stay up to date with wage laws to ensure compliance. With this steady increase, many Floridians hope to see improvements in their financial stability and quality of life.
