Labor Day is fast approaching. And while it’s recognized by many as a three-day weekend and a chance to recuperate, its origins go far beyond that.
The holiday was created in the late 19th century to “recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity and well-being,” according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Thankfully, the Illinois minimum wage has steadily increased over the years to an amount more than double the federal wage. But almost all of its surrounding states’ minimum wages have remained stagnant over the years.
Here’s what to know about Labor Day and the minimum wage.
What is the minimum wage in Illinois?
Illinois’ minimum wage increased to $15 per hour on Jan. 1, 2025, according to the state Department of Labor.
What is the minimum wage in Chicago?
Chicago’s standard minimum wage increased to $16.60 hourly on July 1. The minimum wage for subsidized youth employment programs and subsidized transitional employment programs increased to $16.50.
Every July 1, Chicago’s minimum wage will increase according to the Consumer Price Index or 2.5%, whichever is lower, per the Minimum Wage Ordinance.
What’s the tipped minimum wage in Illinois? In Chicago?
The minimum wage for tipped workers, such as restaurant servers, bartenders, bussers and runners, is $9 in Illinois.
The tipped minimum wage in Chicago increased to $12.62 on July 1. Under the Minimum Wage Ordinance, the tipped wage will continue to increase by 8% every year until it reaches Chicago’s standard hourly minimum wage on July 1, 2028.
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Which businesses have to pay minimum wage?
The Illinois minimum wage applies to almost all non-tipped workers who are 18 years and older. Typically businesses with four or more employees must pay their workers the state minimum wage.
Federal minimum wage 2025
The federal minimum wage has remained at $7.25 since July 24, 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Minimum wage for Illinois’ border states
The U.S. Department of Labor says the minimum wage for states bordering Illinois is:
Marina Johnson contributed to this article.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Labor Day 2025: See Illinois, Chicago minimum wage, tipped pay, federal wage