Starting in the new year, the minimum wage in Delaware will increase by 13% from the existing rate of $11.75 per hour. This hike is a step in the state’s plan to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2025. Here is a complete guide for business owners about Delaware minimum wage and about upcoming changes.
Starting January 1, 2026, Delaware’s minimum wage is $13.25 per hour for most workers. This includes younger workers and trainees, who previously might have earned less; now, all workers are entitled to at least the standard minimum wage. Tipped employees like waitstaff have a minimum cash wage set at $2.23 per hour.
This adjustment is part of a planned series of increases, leading to a minimum wage of $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2025. All employers in Delaware must adhere to these wage standards, regardless of the employee’s age.
Delaware has implemented several minimum wage increases over the years, starting from $8.25 in 2015. The minimum wage on June 1, 2015 was $8.25 per hour. Significant increments followed, with the wage rising to $8.75 on January 1, 2019, then to $9.25 on October 1, 2019, and subsequently to $10.50 on January 1, 2022. The upward trend continued with the wage reaching $11.75 on January 1, 2023, and it is set to rise further to $13.25 on January 1, 2026, with a planned increase to $15.00 on January 1, 2025.
Delaware’s wage laws previously included a training wage and a youth rate set at $8.75. These were applicable for adult workers over 18 during their first 90 days of a new job and youths aged 14-17, respectively. However, these special wage rates were abolished effective December 29, 2021.
Below is a summary table of the historical changes to Delaware’s minimum wage:
| Effective Date | Minimum Wage |
| June 1, 2015 | $8.25/hr |
| January 1, 2019 | $8.75/hr |
| October 1, 2019 | $9.25/hr |
| January 1, 2022 | $10.50/hr |
| January 1, 2023 | $11.75/hr |
| January 1, 2024 | $13.25/hr |
| January 1, 2025 | $15.00/hr |
This progression reflects Delaware’s commitment to increasing the minimum wage incrementally over time, aiming to improve the economic conditions for its workers.
The minimum wage across Delaware differs from one area to another. In 2026, the hourly minimum wage in New Castle County, Kent County, Sussex County, Dover, Wilmington, and Newark is $13.25. This increment is part of a strategy to elevate the minimum wage to $15.00 by 2025. Tipped employees have a different rate, with a minimum cash wage of $2.23 per hour.
Similarly, in Smyrna and Middletown, the minimum wage for 2026 is $13.25 per hour, aligning with the statewide goal to reach a $15.00 hourly rate by 2025. The minimum cash wage for tipped employees remains at $2.23 per hour.
The minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.23. While employees can choose to share or pool tips, employers are not obligated to participate in these arrangements.
When multiple employees directly serve customers, the employer can mandate participation in a tip-sharing system, provided it does not take more than 15% of the primary tips received.
The Delaware Office of Labor Law Enforcement is responsible for enforcing laws that ensure equitable working conditions, including the requirement for overtime pay. Under Delaware law, non-exempt employees must receive 1.5x their standard hourly wage for any hours worked beyond 40 in a single week. Similarly, the Fair Labor Standards Act mandates that non-exempt employees are compensated at 1.5x their regular rate for hours exceeding 40 per week.
Both state and federal wage regulations specify that non-exempt employees in administrative, professional, and executive roles must earn at least $684 weekly or $35,568 annually to qualify for these overtime rules. Eligibility for overtime compensation also depends on the specific job responsibilities of the employees.
Under the FLSA, all Delaware employers are mandated to prominently display the 2026 Delaware Minimum Wage poster and other required labor law compliance posters. These must be placed in areas easily visible to all employees, such as break rooms or hallways. Employers who do not comply with this requirement may face penalties.
In Delaware, certain employees are exempt from the standard minimum wage requirements. These exemptions include workers in agriculture, executive and administrative roles, and those employed by the United States Government. Other exempt categories are volunteer workers, domestic service employees, staff at non-profit summer camp programs, individuals participating in Department of Correction programs, outside commission-based salespeople, and those working in fishing and fish processing.
Furthermore, under the FLSA, Delaware employers can pay a reduced training wage to new employees under 20 years old who lack work experience. This training wage is $4.25 per hour and is applicable only during the first 90 days of employment. Additionally, full-time students who work part-time (no more than 20 hours a week) can earn 85% of the Delaware minimum wage.
Here are some tips to remember for your business when complying with the minimum wage rate in Delaware:
In 2026, Delaware’s minimum wage will rise to $13.25 per hour, marking a 13% increase. This change is part of the state’s broader strategy to reach a $15 minimum wage by 2025, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve wages for all workers, including younger employees and trainees. Tipped workers will continue with a minimum cash wage of $2.23 per hour, with provisions for tip sharing.
Delaware employers must comply with these updated wage laws, including overtime pay requirements and the display of updated labor law posters. While certain exemptions apply, businesses should ensure they meet all legal obligations and maintain clear records. These steps are crucial for adhering to the new wage standards and effectively supporting Delaware’s workforce.
In 2026, the minimum wage in Delaware is $13.25 per hour. This rate applies to most employees in the state, with specific exceptions such as tipped employees, certain student workers, and other exempt occupations.
Yes, Delaware has planned further increases in the minimum wage. Following the 2026 rate of $13.25 per hour, the wage will rise to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2025.
Delaware’s minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, which is higher than the federal minimum. Therefore, Delaware employees are entitled to the higher state minimum wage.
Delaware employers must comply with state wage laws, including regulations on minimum wage, tip pooling, and service charges. For example, employers are not allowed to keep service charges unless they provide clear and conspicuous notice to customers that these are not gratuities but are retained by management. Also, employers must pay the state minimum wage unless the employee or occupation is specifically exempt under state or federal law.
