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Minimum Wage in New Hampshire

New Hampshire's minimum wage follows the federal rate of $7.25 per hour, and tipped employees must receive a cash wage of at least 45 percent of it ($3.27).

Last checked . General information, not legal advice.

New Hampshire at a glance

Minimum wage (per hour)
$7.25
State law adopts the federal minimum wage.
Tipped cash wage (per hour)
$3.27
45 percent of the minimum wage for restaurant, hotel and similar workers who receive more than $30 a month in tips.
Next scheduled increase
None scheduled
The rate changes only if the federal minimum wage changes.

Sources

Last checked

The rules in New Hampshire

What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire in 2026?

Minimum wage (per hour) in New Hampshire: $7.25. State law adopts the federal minimum wage.

What is the minimum cash wage for tipped employees in New Hampshire?

Tipped cash wage (per hour) in New Hampshire: $3.27. 45 percent of the minimum wage for restaurant, hotel and similar workers who receive more than $30 a month in tips.

When is the next minimum wage increase in New Hampshire?

Next scheduled increase in New Hampshire: None scheduled. The rate changes only if the federal minimum wage changes.

Where do the New Hampshire minimum wage laws come from?

The rules above come from N.H. Rev. Stat. 279:21. Each source is linked on this page. We last checked them in October 2026.

What this means in practice

Check which rate applies before setting pay. Coverage rules, employer size thresholds, and exemptions for certain jobs or industries differ, and a local ordinance may require more than the state rate. The statute linked on each state page is the starting point.

Where a lower tipped cash wage is allowed, the employer usually must make up the difference whenever tips fall short of the full minimum wage for the pay period. Keeping accurate records of hours worked and tips reported helps show that every pay period met the minimum.

Rates can change on fixed dates, often January 1 or July 1, and some states adjust them each year for inflation. Reviewing pay rates, offer letters, and employment contracts ahead of each scheduled change helps avoid underpayment claims.

General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.