LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- New Mexico's minimum wage increased, Thursday, putting thousands of workers across the state ahead of many others in the country by nearly a $1 an hour.

Paying employees more might hurt businesses a little bit in an economy already struggling, but workers said it's good for their paychecks.

Roadrunner Pizza in South Las Cruces is busy on the first day of the year, and with prices slightly lower than other national chains, the economy is a bit kinder with people choosing that pizza.

“They can feed more people for a lower price than going to McDonalds or another fast food chain," said Edward Hartley, owner of Roadrunner Pizza.

With many businesses folding, he's optimistic he can survive with the new wage increase to pay out to 12 employees.

“We've been ok we've been doing a little better than breaking even,” Hartley said.

New Mexico said nearly 160,000 residents will be affected by the change. Restaurants and retails stores that pay minimum wage to dozens of employees could be affected the most.

Workers can't wait to see the difference in their paychecks.

“It's actually really good. I think we obviously need some changes because people are struggling out here,” said Christian Jokinen, of Las Cruces.

“I thought it was pretty exciting. $7.50 is a lot,” said Veronica Herrera, of Dona Ana.

Albuquerque already had one of the higher minimum wages at $7.15, until now. Santa Fe jumped from $9.50 to 9.92 an hour.

“From what I see I won’t be cutting any hours. I do see it cutting into our budget a little bit,” Hartley said.

The rest of the nation will see it's next minimum wage increase in late July to $7.25.