Minimum-wage gap between Kansas, Missouri widening in 2024

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – The Missouri minimum wage has already left Kansas in the dust, but soon the difference between state lines will be even greater.

The minimum wage in Missouri increases again on Jan. 1, from $12 to $12.30. The minimum wage is Kansas stays the same, $7.25. Kansas senator Ethan Corson of Prairie Village plans to introduce a bill to raise the minimum wage to $10 an hour in 2025, then an increase of $2 per hour every year until it makes out at $16.

I would just point for folks just across the state line, Missouri’s economy is doing really well — the Kansas City, Missouri economy is doing really well,” Corson said. “So obviously, this has not had a negative effect on businesses, I actually think it’s an economic stimulus for our local economy, because by putting more money in the hands of working people, they’re going to turn around and spend that money on goods and services for their families.”

The difference in minimum wage in Missouri and Kansas is exacerbated when it comes to workers who receive tips. In Missouri, it’s $6 an hour to Kansas’ $2.13. Corson’s bill would increase that to $3.25.

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