Florida’s 2025 Minimum Wage Hike: Florida’s 2025 minimum wage increase is just around the corner, and if you’re earning minimum wage or running a business in the Sunshine State, you’ll want to understand exactly how this change affects you. Starting September 30, 2025, the state’s minimum wage will rise from $13.00 to $14.00 per hour for non-tipped workers. Tipped employees will also see their base wage increase from $9.98 to $10.98 per hour, while the $3.02 tip credit remains unchanged.
This increase is part of Florida’s phased plan to gradually reach a $15.00 minimum wage by 2026, following the successful passage of Amendment 2 in 2020. That means higher paychecks for workers and increased labor costs for employers. Whether you’re an hourly employee planning your budget or a small business owner updating payroll, understanding the 2025 wage hike is essential.
Florida’s 2025 Minimum Wage Hike
| Detail | 2025 Information | Source / Link |
|---|---|---|
| Effective Date | September 30, 2025 | Florida DEO |
| New Minimum Wage (Non-Tipped) | $14.00/hour | Spoton Blog |
| New Minimum Wage (Tipped) | $10.98/hour (with $3.02 tip credit) | Florida DEO |
| Previous Minimum Wage | $13.00/hour (non-tipped), $9.98/hour (tipped) | Amendment 2 Summary |
| Final Scheduled Increase | $15.00/hour by September 30, 2026 | BallotPedia |
| Tip Credit Policy | Remains at $3.02 | Florida DEO Poster Requirements |
Florida’s 2025 minimum wage hike is a major step toward a fairer pay structure for thousands of workers across the state. Whether you’re a cashier, server, retail clerk, or small business owner, this change affects your bottom line. The move from $13.00 to $14.00 per hour signals progress toward economic security for working families.
As always, staying informed and prepared ensures you can adapt effectively. Be sure to visit the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for the latest updates and employer resources.
Why Is Florida Raising the Minimum Wage?
Florida’s minimum wage hike stems from Amendment 2, passed by voters in November 2020. The measure amended the state constitution to increase the minimum wage by $1.00 annually until it hits $15.00 by 2026. The amendment passed with over 60% voter approval, signaling strong public support for fairer wages across the state.
Before Amendment 2, Florida’s minimum wage increases were tied to inflation, often resulting in small, incremental changes. The new plan provides a clear, predictable schedule of raises, benefiting both employees and employers by offering transparency and time to plan.
Who Benefits from the 2025 Minimum Wage Increase?
For Workers
- Full-time minimum wage employees will see an annual increase of about $2,080 if working 40 hours per week.
- Workers in industries like hospitality, food service, retail, and construction will benefit most.
- Tipped workers—such as servers, bartenders, and delivery drivers—will also see a boost in base pay.
For Employers
- Employers must update payroll systems, posters, and documentation by September 30, 2025.
- Small businesses may experience increased costs, especially those with large hourly staff.
- However, reduced turnover, improved employee satisfaction, and higher productivity may help offset added expenses.
Minimum Wage Timeline: 2021–2026
Florida’s path to $15.00/hour is gradual. Here’s a breakdown:
| Year | Minimum Wage (Non-Tipped) | Tipped Minimum Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $10.00 | $6.98 |
| 2022 | $11.00 | $7.98 |
| 2023 | $12.00 | $8.98 |
| 2024 | $13.00 | $9.98 |
| 2025 | $14.00 | $10.98 |
| 2026 | $15.00 | $11.98 |
What Employers Need to Know
If you own or manage a business in Florida, compliance with wage laws is not optional. Failure to follow minimum wage requirements can lead to penalties, fines, and lawsuits.
Action Items for Employers:
- Review current wage structures and adjust accordingly
- Update payroll software or work with a provider to ensure compliance
- Display updated wage posters in a visible location (mandatory by law)
- Train HR and management teams on the new rates
- Evaluate whether pricing adjustments or workforce restructuring are needed
- Visit the official Florida DEO poster page to download and print the latest mandatory posters.
How This Affects Tipped Employees
Tipped employees have long been paid a lower base wage, under the assumption that tips make up the difference. Florida allows a $3.02 tip credit, meaning that tipped workers must earn at least the state minimum wage after tips are included.
In 2025:
- Base wage = $10.98/hour
- With $3.02 in tips, total pay should equal $14.00/hour
If a worker’s tips fall short, the employer must make up the difference.
Employers should maintain accurate tip reporting and ensure proper documentation to avoid wage and hour violations.
Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Full-Time Non-Tipped Worker
Sarah works 40 hours/week at a retail store.
- 2024 Pay: 40 hrs × $13 = $520/week
- 2025 Pay: 40 hrs × $14 = $560/week
- Annual Increase = $2,080
Example 2: Tipped Restaurant Server
James earns $100 in tips per shift, working 5 shifts/week.
- 2024: Base = $9.98 × 25 hrs = $249.50 + $500 tips = $749.50/week
- 2025: Base = $10.98 × 25 hrs = $274.50 + $500 tips = $774.50/week
- Annual Increase = $1,300
Pros and Cons of the Wage Increase
Pros
- Increased worker morale and retention
- More spending power for low-income households
- Reduced reliance on public assistance programs
Cons
- Increased operating costs for small businesses
- Potential for job cuts or reduced hours
- Risk of price increases for consumers
It’s important to weigh these outcomes as part of larger economic trends and labor market dynamics.
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Practical Advice for Workers
If you’re earning minimum wage or close to it, now is the perfect time to plan ahead.
Budgeting Tips:
- Reassess your monthly budget to make use of the extra income
- Save a portion of each paycheck—consider starting an emergency fund
- Explore opportunities for upskilling or training to boost long-term earning potential
Career Growth:
- Use the wage hike as motivation to pursue certifications, apprenticeships, or part-time education
- Speak to your employer about performance-based raises beyond the minimum
FAQs On Florida’s 2025 Minimum Wage Hike
Is Florida’s minimum wage really going to $15?
Yes. By law, Florida’s minimum wage will increase annually by $1.00 until it reaches $15.00 on September 30, 2026.
Who is considered a tipped employee?
Anyone who regularly receives more than $30 per month in tips, such as restaurant servers and bartenders.
Can employers pay less than $14/hour in 2025?
Only if the employee qualifies as a tipped worker and their total earnings (wage + tips) meet or exceed $14.00/hour.
Are minors subject to the same wage?
Yes. Florida does not have a separate minimum wage for workers under 18.
How will this affect unemployment benefits?
Wage changes could impact income-based eligibility for state or federal benefits.
