On Jan. 1, 2025 ushered in a new increase of Las Cruces’ minimum wage: from $12.36 to $12.65 per hour.
For workers earning tips, the hourly minimum will rise from $4.95 to $5.06 per hour, according to a news release from the city.
The city’s minimum wage ordinance, enacted in 2014 and taking effect in 2015, includes annual increases since 2020 based on the Consumer Price Index, a calculation of changes in what consumers pay for goods and services.
As stated in the release, the city compares its CPI calculation to the state of New Mexico’s minimum wage, and then enforces the higher number.
“For 2025, the State minimum wage will again remain at $12,” the city announced. “The City of Las Cruces minimum wage will increase, based on the CPI index and the City ordinance which adopts the higher of the State or Las Cruces amount.”
Under city ordinance, employers who break the law by paying workers less than the minimum wage are considered a public nuisance. This allows workers to sue employers and, if successful in court, collect lost wages along with interest. They also force the employer to pay the attorney fees.