What is the minimum wage in Claremont?
$16.90 an hour. Claremont has no minimum wage ordinance of its own, so the California state rate applies, and it is adjusted for inflation each January 1. 6 of the 89 jurisdictions in Los Angeles County do set their own rate above the state floor.
Do I need a business license in Claremont?
Almost certainly yes. California cities license businesses individually, and Claremont runs its own process, fees, and renewal cycle. A license from a neighboring city does not carry over, and home-based businesses usually need one too. Start at www.claremontca.gov, which is the official site.
Where are Claremont business rules decided?
In city council meetings. Fee schedules, sign rules, outdoor dining, vending, and operating hours are all set locally, and they take effect whether or not a business hears about them first. Agendas are posted on www.claremontca.gov.
Claremont publishes its agendas through Granicus, which means they are machine-readable. We poll them on a rotating schedule.
What if I have locations in more than one city?
You may owe different wages for identical work. West Hollywood requires $20.25, Pasadena requires $18.57, Santa Monica requires $18.47, Unincorporated Los Angeles County requires $18.47, Los Angeles requires $18.42, Malibu requires $17.91, against $16.90 in Claremont. The rule is that the employee is owed whichever applicable rate is highest, and the rate follows the location where the work is performed rather than where the business is registered.
| Jurisdiction | Rate | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Claremont | $16.90 | — |
| West Hollywood | $20.25 | +$3.35 |
| Pasadena | $18.57 | +$1.67 |
| Santa Monica | $18.47 | +$1.57 |
| Unincorporated Los Angeles County | $18.47 | +$1.57 |
| Los Angeles | $18.42 | +$1.52 |
| Malibu | $17.91 | +$1.01 |
What state and federal rules also apply?
Local rules sit on top of state and federal ones, and the state and federal layers are usually the bigger exposure. Every business in Claremont is also subject to the same California and federal requirements we cover.
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When should I check this again?
Each January 1, when the state rate is adjusted. The next change is expected January 1, 2027.