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SANTA FE, NM, Feb. 12, 2026—Beginning March 1, 2026, living wage adjustments will go into effect for Santa Fe County. The updated living wage will be $15.40 for regular workers and $4.62 for tipped workers.

The increase applies to businesses located throughout Santa Fe County, outside of the incorporated boundaries of the City of Santa Fe, City of Española, and Town of Edgewood.

Affected business and employees include the following:

Businesses required by Santa Fe County to have a business license

Santa Fe County government

Contractors entering contracts with Santa Fe County for services (including construction)

Businesses participating in a County economic development project with a project participation agreement

The wage increases apply to all employees of these affected businesses whether employed on a full-time, part-time or temporary basis, including contingent or contracted workers and those working through a temporary service or an employment agency.

Employers are required to pay employees at least the County living wage rate and post the living wage compliance notice next to the business license in English and Spanish. Employers cannot retaliate against an employee for asserting rights under the ordinance.

The increase is determined based on the Consumer Price Index for the Western Region for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, which was calculated as 2.71% for 2025. The percentage and final amount were confirmed via consultation with the City of Santa Fe which follows the same procedure based on their ordinance.

The increase is determined by looking at Consumer Price Index Indicators for the Southwest Region as defined by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for the last year, and applying a percent change to the average. The County coordinated with the City of Santa Fe to make sure the numbers matched, as this year both entities applied the same metrics according to current ordinances. The County defines the tipped wage as 30% of the calculated living wage.

Santa Fe County first established a living wage ordinance in February 2014. The County Code Enforcement division investigates potential violations. If you believe you are not being paid the minimum wage required by this ordinance or that your employer is in violation of this ordinance, there are several ways to request an investigation.

To file a request for investigation:

Complete the online investigation request form

Contact Code Enforcement Supervisor Joseph Martinez at JAMartinez2@SantaFeCountyNM.gov

Download the complaint form and email it to  JAMartinez2@SantaFeCountyNM.gov

Deliver a complaint form in person to the Growth Management Department, located at 240 Grant Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87501