On January 1, 2012 Colorado employers in a variety of industries will face an increase in the minimum wage. The 2012 minimum will be $7.64 (up from the 2011 rate of $7.36) and will affect employers in the retail and service, food and beverage, commercial support service, and health and medical industries.

For tipped employees, the minimum wage will rise from the current $4.34 to $4.64, also effective January 1.