News Summary
Florida’s minimum wage is set to increase to $14 per hour starting September 30, 2025, as part of a progressive wage plan approved by voters. This gradual increase will reach $15 an hour by September 30, 2026. The minimum base wage for tipped employees will also rise. While supporters believe it will enhance worker quality of life, critics warn it may raise labor costs for businesses and impact employment levels. The wage increase is significantly higher than the federal minimum wage, which has remained unchanged for over a decade.
Orlando, Florida – Florida’s minimum wage is set to increase to $14 per hour starting September 30, 2025, marking another step in a progressive wage plan approved by voters through a constitutional amendment known as Amendment 2 in 2020. This gradual wage hike will continue annually until it reaches $15 an hour on September 30, 2026.
As part of this wage adjustment, the minimum base wage for tipped employees will rise to at least $10.98 an hour, plus tips. Currently, the state’s minimum wage is $13 an hour for non-tipped employees and $9.98 for tipped employees as of September 19, 2025. After the minimum wage reaches $15 an hour, adjustments will be made every year based on inflation.
Impacts of Wage Increase
Prior to the passage of Amendment 2, Florida’s minimum wage was established at $8.46. The amendment was strongly backed by John Morgan, founder of Morgan & Morgan, who invested significantly in its campaign, and it passed with just over 60% of the vote.
While supporters argue that the wage increases will improve the quality of life for workers, critics contend that raising the minimum wage could escalate labor costs for small businesses and potentially lead to higher unemployment rates, especially among entry-level jobs. UCF Economist Sean Snaith raised concerns that setting the minimum wage above market levels could create a surplus of labor, thereby increasing unemployment.
Comparison with Federal Minimum Wage
Florida’s rising minimum wage is significantly higher than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, which has remained unchanged since 2009. This wage increase trend is not unique to Florida; many states across the country have implemented or are considering minimum wage hikes in recent years.
Legislative Context
During the 2025 legislative session, bills that would have allowed workers in apprenticeships or internships to accept lower pay were postponed and ultimately withdrawn. This reflects ongoing debates around wage policies within the state. Florida’s minimum wage has been adjusted annually based on inflation since 2004, following an initial establishment by a voter-approved amendment in 2005.
Conclusion
The increase in Florida’s minimum wage to $14 an hour is a significant development in the state’s labor landscape. As it continues to rise toward $15 an hour, the implications for businesses and workers will likely prompt ongoing discussions about the balance between fair wages and economic viability.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Florida’s New Hiring Requirement for Small Businesses
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Additional Resources
- My News 13
- Wikipedia: Minimum wage
- Click Orlando
- Google Search: Florida minimum wage
- NBC Miami
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Minimum wage
- Tallahassee.com
- Google News: Florida minimum wage increase
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
