Different states have the power to set a legal minimum wage. In Georgia, the state minimum wage is $5.15 per hour, as defined in state statute. However, for most workers, the federal minimum wage under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) — $7.25/hour — overrides Georgia’s lower rate. That means while the state law sets a floor at $5.15, employers subject to FLSA must pay at least $7.25.
Georgia’s Minimum Wage & Federal Override
Georgia has not raised its state wage above $5.15 for many years. Because the federal minimum wage is higher, the federal rate is the effective legal minimum for nearly all covered workers in Georgia. In practice, employers covered by FLSA must comply with the federal standard rather than the lower state statute.
Overtime Rules Under FLSA
Under FLSA, eligible (nonexempt) employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek must receive 1.5× their regular hourly rate as overtime pay. For example, someone earning $7.25/hour would have an overtime rate of about $10.88/hour.
Who’s Covered & Who’s Exempted?
Many workers in Georgia fall under FLSA coverage (retail, services, manual labor), particularly where employers engage in interstate commerce or meet federal revenue thresholds. Certain roles, however, can be exempt from overtime and some minimum-wage protections if they meet salary-and-duties tests (commonly executive, administrative, and professional roles).
Special categories also exist: tipped employees, student workers, and certain small or family-run employers may have different rules or allowed lower rates under narrow conditions. Tipped employees, for example, may be paid a lower direct cash wage when an employer properly takes a tip credit in accordance with federal rules.
Current Challenges & Possible Changes
Regulatory and legal changes at the federal level — such as attempts to revise exemption salary thresholds — can alter who qualifies as exempt and who receives overtime. Georgia’s state minimum remains static, so any meaningful increase for most workers would likely require action at the federal level or new state legislation.
Final Takeaway
In Georgia, the state law sets the minimum wage at $5.15, but most covered employees are protected by the federal floor of $7.25/hour. Overtime protections under FLSA provide additional pay for extra hours. Because exemptions and legal rulings can change the practical effect of these laws, employees and employers should monitor official sources for updates.
FAQs
What is Georgia’s state minimum wage in 2025?
Georgia legally sets a state minimum wage of $5.15/hour, but this often doesn’t apply when federal law overrides it for covered employers.
Why do many Georgia workers earn $7.25 instead of $5.15?
Most employers and jobs in Georgia are covered by the FLSA, which requires at least $7.25/hour; where FLSA applies, it supersedes the lower state rate.
Who qualifies for overtime pay in Georgia?
Employees classified as nonexempt under FLSA — typically hourly workers and some salaried workers who fail the exemption tests — must be paid 1.5× their regular rate for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek.
Are there roles not entitled to overtime or minimum wage?
Yes. Certain executive, administrative, and professional employees who meet federal salary-and-duties tests are exempt from overtime. Additionally, some small employers or specific job categories may be subject to different rules; consult official guidance for details.
Daniel is a business writer focused on entrepreneurship, finance, and investment strategies. He shares practical insights to help professionals and business owners make informed decisions in a fast-changing market.