Missouri’s minimum wage rises to fifteen dollars in 2026

MISSOURI(KBSI) – As of January 1, 2026, Missouri workers making minimum wage will see a pay increase as minimum wage has gone up to $15 an hour. 

Missourians approved Proposition A in 2024 that allowed for Missouri’s minimum wage to be increased to $15 an hour with future increases tied to inflation. Although passed by voters the increase has received mixed feedback, some say it’s a long-awaited boost, but others say it could strain small businesses.

“Minimum wage, increasing from $13.75 an hour to $15 an hour, I think is a step in the right direction. The cost of living has gone up exponentially. The cost of childcare, gas, groceries, rent, and utilities have all increased, whereas wages have stayed a bit stagnant. So, I think this, small adjustment is a step in the right direction.” -NOW App User

“Most people I talk to don’t realize when minimum wage goes up, employers have to raise prices to pay for the new minimum wage. Therefore, the minimum wage needs to go up again to cover the new prices therefore, prices need to go up again, on and on and on and on and it becomes just a vicious cycle.” -NOW App User

“If you are an individual who makes minimum wage, I think that this is probably a blessing. Just to be able to take home more pay for hours worked.” -NOW App User

Federally minimum wage is set $7. 25 an hour but most states pay above that to keep up with inflation. Missouri now sits right in the middle for minimum wage compensation in the US, so anyone previously making under $15 an hour will now see a raise on their next paycheck.

Minimum Wage | Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations