Minimum Wage in Jamaica: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Jamaica?

As of 2026, Jamaica’s national minimum wage is still J$16,000 per 40-hour workweek. This rate came into effect on 1 June 2025, following an increase from J$15,000.

The 6.7% increase was announced by Prime Minister Andrew Holness during the 2025/26 Budget Debate on 20 March 2025 and was aimed at supporting the country’s lowest-paid workers while keeping the broader economy stable. The rate remains unchanged in 2026 unless a new adjustment is formally announced.

Minimum Wage in Jamaica Based on Region

Jamaica does not implement regional variations in its minimum wage; the rate is consistent nationwide. However, there are specific provisions for certain categories of workers, such as private security guards. Effective June 1, 2025, the minimum wage for private security guards was also set at J$16,000 per 40-hour workweek.

Average vs. Reasonable vs. Typical Minimum Wages

When talking about wages in Jamaica, it helps to separate what the law requires from what people typically earn and what’s considered fair given the cost of living and job demands. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean slightly different things in practice.

•  Average Wage: The average wage refers to the mean income earned by workers in a particular industry or across the economy as a whole. It’s calculated by dividing total wages paid by the number of employees and is usually higher than the minimum wage, especially in skilled or high-demand sectors.
•  Reasonable Wage: A reasonable wage is generally understood as a fair level of pay for a specific role, taking into account factors like industry standards, cost of living, experience, and qualifications. In many cases, what’s considered reasonable sits above the legal minimum, particularly in professional or technical roles.
•  Typical Minimum Wage: The typical minimum wage is the lowest wage legally allowed and sets the baseline employers must follow. As of 2026, Jamaica’s national minimum wage is J$16,000 per week for a standard 40-hour workweek (equivalent to J$400 per hour). This rate has been in effect since June 2025 and remains unchanged in 2026.

While the minimum wage sets the legal baseline, average wages often exceed this amount, especially in industries with higher skill requirements or labor shortages.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Jamaica?

Jamaica's minimum wage legislation applies uniformly to all workers, ensuring that employees receive at least the stipulated minimum compensation. However, specific categories of workers, such as private security guards, have distinct provisions.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in Jamaica are entitled to a minimum of J$16,000 for a standard 40-hour workweek. This rate is consistent across most industries.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees are compensated on a pro-rata basis relative to the hours worked, ensuring they receive an equivalent hourly rate of at least J$400.

Interns and Trainees

In Jamaica, the application of minimum wage laws to interns and trainees depends on the nature of their engagement. If they are classified as employees, they are entitled to the minimum wage.

Expats

Expatriates working in Jamaica are subject to the same labor laws as local employees.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Jamaica

Industry-Specific Variations

While the national minimum wage provides a baseline, certain industries, such as private security services, have specific wage rates.

Economic Conditions

Economic indicators like inflation and employment rates play a crucial role in shaping minimum wage policies.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Jamaican government periodically reviews and adjusts the minimum wage through legislative processes.

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Minimum Wage History and Trends in Jamaica

Jamaica’s minimum wage has increased steadily over time, reflecting ongoing efforts by the government to improve worker livelihoods while responding to inflation and cost-of-living pressures.

Historical Changes:

• 1975: The National Minimum Wage Order was introduced, establishing a formal wage floor across sectors.
• 2023: The minimum wage increased by 44%, rising from J$9,000 to J$13,000 per 40-hour workweek.
• 2024: The wage was raised again to J$15,000 per 40-hour workweek, effective 1 June 2024.
• 2025: A further increase took effect on 1 June 2025, bringing the minimum wage to J$16,000 per 40-hour workweek.

Current Status (2026):‍

As of 2026, the national minimum wage remains J$16,000 per 40-hour workweek. This rate continues to apply nationwide and reflects the government’s most recent completed adjustment aimed at protecting the purchasing power of lower-income workers.

The Jamaican government has consistently reviewed the minimum wage in response to economic conditions, particularly inflation and rising living costs. The 2025 increase marked another step in that ongoing approach.

Outlook:
While government officials have signalled an intention to review the minimum wage again, no increase has been formally approved or implemented for 2026 as of now. Any future adjustment would require review by the Minimum Wage Advisory Commission and formal government approval before taking effect.

Overall, Jamaica’s approach to minimum wage policy reflects a continued effort to balance economic stability with the welfare of its workforce, adapting wage levels as economic conditions evolve.