North Carolina Minimum Wage 2026
North Carolina follows federal minimum wage.
Tipped Minimum Wage: $2.13/hour
Tipped employees in North Carolina can be paid $2.13/hour, but total earnings including tips must reach $7.25/hour. If tips don't cover the difference, the employer must make up the gap.
North Carolina Minimum Wage FAQ 2026
What is the minimum wage in North Carolina in 2026?
The North Carolina minimum wage is 7.25/hour in 2026. This applies to most employees. Working full-time (2,080 hours/year), a minimum wage worker earns 15,080/year before taxes.
How much is North Carolina minimum wage per year?
At 7.25/hour, a full-time worker (40 hrs/week, 52 weeks) earns 15,080/year gross. After taxes, take-home pay will be lower — use our paycheck calculator to see your exact net pay.
Is North Carolina minimum wage above federal minimum wage?
North Carolina follows the federal minimum wage of 7.25/hour. State and federal minimums are the same.
Who is exempt from minimum wage laws?
Some workers are exempt including certain farm workers, outside salespeople, and some apprentices/students. Tipped employees can be paid a lower direct wage if tips bring total compensation to minimum wage.