Belmont Wage Hike: Rate Climbs To $19.60

Belmont's minimum wage will increase to $19.60 per hour on January 1, 2027. The rate rises by 65 cents from the current 2026 level of $18.95.

The city announced the adjustment on October 23, 2026. The new wage applies to all employees who work at least two hours a week inside city boundaries. This requirement covers workers of all ages, including those under 18.

Belmont adopted its minimum wage ordinance in 2017. Since then, the city has adjusted the rate every January based on regional inflation figures. These annual changes are subject to specific limits set by local law.

Employers must pay the full hourly rate to eligible full-time and part-time staff. They cannot count tips or other benefits toward the required minimum. Businesses must also display the official city notice and keep employee pay records for at least three years.

The ordinance requires employers to inform employees of their rights. Workers who believe their employer violated the rules can file a complaint. The city contracts with San Mateo County's Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement to investigate these cases.

Employees and employers can call the county's free labor advice hotline at 866-870-7725 for questions. The line provides confidential guidance on wage compliance and enforcement matters.