San Francisco Minimum Wage 2025: How much workers must earn and how it compares across California

San Francisco Minimum Wage 2025: San Francisco is already known as one of the most expensive places in America, and the city also has one of the highest minimum wages to match that reality. Starting July 1, 2025, workers in the city must be paid at least $18.67 per hour, no matter the type of job, size of the company, or even if tips are involved. The rule is part of the local wage ordinance that forces employers to keep up with rising living costs.

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California on its own has one of the highest statewide minimum wages, which is $16.00 per hour for most workers. But big cities often push the number higher to keep up with the crazy cost of living. San Francisco is at the very top, and when you compare, the difference is clear.

How does San Francisco compare to other cities in California?

California generally has one of the highest minimum wages in the country, but some cities have their own local laws that set higher rates.

Minimum wage in other major cities in California:

• Los Angeles: $17.28 per hour
• San Diego: $16.85 per hour
• San Jose: $17.55 per hour
• Oakland: $17.00 per hour
• Pasadena: $17.50 per hour

Why wages change from city to city?

The reason wages look so different across California is because each city sets its own rules based on local needs. The state minimum is the floor, but cities can go higher if living costs demand it. San Francisco uses inflation data, known as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), to adjust the rate each year. If prices of food, rent, or transport go up, the wage goes up too.

Local governments say these laws protect workers better, especially in places where paychecks don’t stretch as far. Expensive cities need higher wages to give people a fair shot at covering basic needs.

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Who gets this wage?

The rule is very clear. Anyone who works at least two hours in a week inside San Francisco’s city limits must be paid this rate. It doesn’t matter if you work part-time or full-time, or even what your immigration status is, the law applies the same to everyone. Employers also must tell their staff about wage changes and put updated notices somewhere workers can see them.