Cantonal minimum wage
Neuchâtel minimum wage 2026
In 2026 the statutory minimum wage in the canton of Neuchâtel is CHF 21.35/h gross: here is the estimated monthly amount, the legal basis and what it means for cross-border workers.
Updated on 21 July 2026
The first Swiss canton to introduce a statutory minimum wage (2017), set just above the supplementary-benefits threshold.
Legal basis and how it works
Cantonal Employment Act (LEmpl).
Source: République et Canton de Neuchâtel — Service de l’emploi
How it compares with the other cantons
Only five Swiss cantons have a statutory minimum wage. Here is the hourly comparison for the current year:
| Canton | In force since | Hourly minimum wage | Monthly estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geneva | 2020 | CHF 24.59/h | ≈ CHF 4’475 |
| Basel-Stadt | 2022 | CHF 22.20/h | ≈ CHF 4’040 |
| Jura | 2018 | CHF 21.40/h | ≈ CHF 3’895 |
| Neuchâtel | 2017 | CHF 21.35/h | ≈ CHF 3’886 |
| Ticino | 2021 | CHF 20.00–20.50/h | ≈ CHF 3’640–3’731 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in Neuchâtel in 2026?
In 2026 the statutory minimum wage in the canton of Neuchâtel is CHF 21.35/h gross. The figure is indexed to the cost of living every year.
Does the Neuchâtel minimum wage also apply to cross-border workers?
Yes. The cantonal minimum wage applies to every worker employed in the canton, including cross-border workers with a G permit, regardless of their country of residence.
Can a collective agreement set a higher minimum?
Yes. If the sector collective agreement sets a minimum wage above the cantonal one, the figure more favourable to the employee applies.