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Cost of hiring an employee in New Jersey

A full-time hire at $18/hour costs about $42,203 a year before benefits — $21.10 per hour actually worked with 10 days off.

Last updated October 28, 2026 · 2026 rates

SUTA new-employer rate
2.8%
verified
SUTA wage base
$44,800
verified
Minimum wage
$15.92
verified
Workers' comp (typical)
$2.16/$100
rank 2/51 (1 = priciest)

1About the hire

Adjust tax rates (from your notices or quotes)

2What this employee costs you

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to hire an employee in New Jersey?

A full-time worker at $18.00/hour ($37,440 a year) with 10 PTO days costs about $42,203 a year before benefits: employer payroll tax $2,864, FUTA $42, New Jersey unemployment $1,048 and typical workers' comp $809. That's $21.10 per hour worked.

What is the New Jersey SUTA rate for new employers in 2026?

2.8% on the first $44,800 of each employee's wages (U.S. DOL, January 2026).

What is the New Jersey minimum wage in 2026?

$15.92 per hour.

How much is workers' comp in New Jersey?

The 2024 Oregon premium-rate study puts New Jersey's all-industry index rate at $2.16 per $100 of payroll (rank 2 of 51; national median $1.09). Your real rate depends on job class and claims history.

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