It’s really expensive to live in California. That fact, more than anything, inspired a decade of policy changes in the Capitol to raise the minimum wage for California workers.

Today, California’s $16 minimum wage is among the highest in the nation, but there is ongoing debate about whether it is enough for low-wage workers to afford a decent living. Meanwhile, business owners say they’re passing the higher labor costs on to customers at the register.

Here’s a Look at How California Increased Pay for Low-Wage Workers and What the Changes Mean for the State’s Economy.

About the Authors

Adam Ashton is a deputy editor supervising CalMatters’ coverage of health care, mental health and criminal justice. Adam previously led the local news staff as assistant managing editor at The Sacramento Bee, prioritizing coverage of homelessness, public safety, education and underserved communities. 

Liliana is a reporter, multimedia producer and former professional soccer player from Lima, Peru. She was a correspondent at the 2016 Rio Olympics for El Comercio, and later covered the aftermath for The Associated Press. 

About CalMatters

CalMatters is a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom committed to explaining California policy and politics.