Fast Food Worker Salary in Arlington, VA
Fast Food Workers in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.60 per hour, which translates to about $584.00 per week, $2,530.67 per month, and $30,368.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Arlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increased need for quick-service food employees in this bustling metropolitan area.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Arlington varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.60 | $584.00 | $2,526.67 | $30,368.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Arlington Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips as their work mainly involves service at counter or drive-thru without direct tipping opportunities. Their income comes primarily from their hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which is about $30,160.00 per year.
Comparatively, Fast Food Workers in Arlington earn slightly more than the national average at approximately $14.60 per hour and $30,368.00 annually. This difference may be influenced by Arlington's higher local cost of living and competitive job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Fast Food Workers include:
- Rosslyn: $15.50 per hour
- Ballston: $15.00 per hour
Workers commuting to Rosslyn can expect the highest pay rates among the nearby localities, followed closely by Ballston.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors can affect how much a Fast Food Worker earns in Arlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced workers or those who have cross-trained in multiple roles often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast-food chains with higher volume or prestige may offer better pay than smaller or independently owned establishments.
- Shift Times: Late night or peak time shifts may come with differential pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Arlington's higher living expenses generally push wages up compared to other regions.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Arlington
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Arlington involves several recommended steps:
- Gain Basic Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient to begin.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Arlington Career Center provide helpful skills for entry-level roles.
- Learn Food Safety Practices: Obtaining certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable and often required.
- Hospitality Management Skills: The Hospitality Management Program at Northern Virginia Community College can benefit those looking for advancement.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) can open doors to supervisory roles.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Arlington
Several prominent fast food chains regularly hire Fast Food Workers in Arlington, including:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- Five Guys
- Wendy's
- KFC
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Arlington Work At
Fast Food Workers in Arlington typically find employment in various types of establishments such as:
- Traditional Fast Food Chains: These usually offer the most entry-level positions with standard wage structures.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While still quick-service, these may pay slightly better due to higher quality offerings and customer interaction.
- Food Trucks and Mobile Vendors: Some Fast Food Workers find jobs in more flexible settings, sometimes with variable pay.
- Concession Stands and Cafeterias: Often on-site dining facilities may provide stable jobs with potentially less hectic environments.
The type of establishment can greatly influence wages, hours, and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Fast Food Workers
If you are interested in alternatives or advancement opportunities related to being a Fast Food Worker, consider these similar careers:
These include Cashier, Cook, and Fry Cook roles that often share overlapping duties and growth paths with Fast Food Workers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Arlington
Fast Food Workers in Arlington should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair employment and compliance.
- Federal labor standards, including minimum wage and overtime rules, can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia's labor regulations and employment resources are available at the official Virginia government website.
- For localized government services and labor information tailored to Arlington County, visit Arlington County's official site.