NYC Council Members Approve First Pay Raise in 10 Years

WHO:

Gothamist - NYC lawmakers, including members of the City Council

NY Post - NYC voters

WHAT:

Gothamist - NYC lawmakers approved an 18% pay hike for themselves.

NY Post - The pay increase will raise City Council members' salaries to $175,500.

WHERE:

Gothamist - New York City, encompassing the five boroughs.

WHEN:

Gothamist - The pay raise is the first in a decade.

WHY:

Gothamist - Many elected officials argued that higher pay helps attract more qualified candidates for office.

NY Post - The pay hike is perceived as showing contempt for city voters.

HOW:

Gothamist - The decision was made through a vote by the City Council.

(UPDATED July 14, 2026 20:21 UTC)

New York City lawmakers have approved an 18% pay hike for themselves, raising City Council members' salaries to $175,500, marking the first increase in a decade. The decision, made through a City Council vote, has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it helps attract more qualified candidates for office, while others perceive it as showing contempt for city voters. This move has generated significant discussion across the five boroughs of New York City.