Fast Food Worker Salary in Denver, CO
Fast Food Workers in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.81 per hour, which translates to about $752.40 per week, $3,260.40 per month, and $39,124.80 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Denver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a strong and increasing need for professionals in the fast food sector locally.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Denver, CO?
The salary for a Fast Food Worker in Denver varies depending on experience, with entry-level workers earning less and experienced workers earning more. Here is a detailed breakdown of typical earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.81 | $752.40 | $3,260.40 | $39,124.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.16 | $846.40 | $3,664.53 | $43,972.80 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Denver Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as their role mainly focuses on food preparation and order delivery in fast food settings where tipping is uncommon. Their earnings mostly come from their regular wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average hourly wage of about $13.25, which adds up to roughly $27,560 annually.
In comparison, Fast Food Workers in Denver earn considerably more, averaging $18.81 per hour and approximately $39,124.80 annually. This reflects Denver's higher living costs and competitive labor market in the fast food industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Fast Food Workers
Nearby locations also offer competitive wages for Fast Food Workers:
- Parker, CO: $20.38 per hour
- Denver, CO: $18.81 per hour
- Alamosa, CO: $18.81 per hour
Parker stands out as a higher-paying area near Denver, potentially appealing for those seeking better compensation in the fast food field.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Denver?
Several factors impact how much a Fast Food Worker earns in Denver:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced workers often receive higher pay rates or promotions to supervisory roles.
- Skills and Efficiency: Proficiency in customer service, speed, and multitasking may affect earnings positively.
- Type of Establishment: Chain restaurants might offer different pay scales compared to local or gourmet fast food outlets.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes include differential pay, increasing overall income.
- Location and Cost of Living: Wages tend to reflect local economic conditions; Denver’s higher living costs contribute to higher wages.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Denver
Becoming a Fast Food Worker in Denver involves several straightforward steps:
- Gain Basic Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred but not always required.
- Complete Food Safety Training: Obtaining certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager can improve job prospects, particularly for supervisory roles.
- Consider Culinary and Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Emily Griffith Technical College or the Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver can provide valuable skills and advancement opportunities.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication abilities are essential in fast food environments.
- Apply to Entry-Level Positions: Gaining work experience in fast food establishments can lead to further opportunities within the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Denver
Denver’s fast food scene features several major employers regularly hiring Fast Food Workers, including:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- Wendy's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Denver Work At
Fast Food Workers in Denver typically work across a range of establishment types, such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Large chain restaurants provide structured environments with standardized pay and benefits.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer slightly higher wages due to a more upscale environment and greater skill requirements.
- Local Quick-Service Restaurants: Smaller or independently owned locations may vary widely in pay and working conditions.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with fast casual venues often paying more than traditional fast food outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Fast Food Workers
Individuals interested in roles similar to Fast Food Work may also consider related jobs with overlapping skills and pay scales.
This includes Cashier, Cook, and Fry Cook positions, which share common duties in food preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Denver
Fast Food Workers in Denver should be well-informed about local and federal labor laws that affect their employment and earnings.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for state labor law details and regulations.
- The Official website of the City and County of Denver provides resources on local employment laws and services.
- For federal requirements, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website is a valuable resource for information on wages, hours, and workplace safety.