There are still more workers in states that use the federal minimum wage than in states with a $15 minimum wage: Number of workers and share of total workforce by minimum wage status in 2024 and by 2027
| Workers in states with at least a $15 minimum wage | Workers in $7.25 states | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| In 2024 | By 2027 | In 2024 | |
| Number of workers | 44,971,800 | 76,134,300 | 58,960,500 |
| Share of total workforce | 28.4% | 48.1% | 37.2% |
Notes: "By 2027" analysis includes Arizona, Colorado, Maine, and Oregon which are projected to reach $15 an hour by 2027 due to annual inflation adjustments. "By 2027" does not include Virginia which could reach $15 an hour by 2027 if the state's scheduled increases are reauthorized by the state legislature and governor.
Sources: EPI analysis of state minimum wage policies and BLS Current Employment Statistics total nonfarm employment for October 2024.