Fast Food Worker Salary in Detroit, MI
Fast Food Workers in Detroit, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.11 per hour, which translates to about $524.40 per week, $2,272.40 per month, and $27,268.80 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in Detroit is seeing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities in the fast food sector driven by consumer demand and expansion of food service outlets.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Detroit, MI?
The earnings of a Fast Food Worker in Detroit vary depending on experience level and employer. Here's a breakdown across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.86 | $434.40 | $1,877.60 | $22,540.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.11 | $524.40 | $2,272.40 | $27,268.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,739.73 | $32,825.60 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Detroit Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips since most transactions are paid upfront by customers and service interaction is brief. Their compensation is generally based on wages alone.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Detroit vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Fast Food Workers is about $13.11 per hour, or roughly $27,268.80 annually.
Fast Food Workers in Detroit earn salaries that are largely aligned with the national average, reflecting competitive wages relative to the cost of living in the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Detroit for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Fast Food Workers:
- Ann Arbor: $15.50 per hour
- Hartland: $15.00 per hour
Commuting to Ann Arbor or Hartland may offer Fast Food Workers a higher wage compared to staying within Detroit city limits.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Detroit?
Several factors impact the salary levels for Fast Food Workers in Detroit:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced workers who efficiently handle busy shifts or have supervisory capabilities may earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chains offering premium quick service or franchises with high traffic might pay more compared to smaller independent outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening, night, and weekend shifts often come with differential pay.
- Location: Certain neighborhoods or suburban areas with higher costs of living tend to have better pay.
- Additional Roles: Responsibilities such as cash handling or opening and closing duties can influence pay scale.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Detroit
Entering the role of a Fast Food Worker in Detroit can be straightforward but taking additional steps can improve job prospects and earnings:
- Acquire Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) enhance your resume and are often requirements.
- Consider Culinary Arts or Hospitality Programs: Local colleges such as Schoolcraft College offer a Culinary Arts Program focusing on skills relevant to food preparation.
- Hospitality Knowledge: Macomb Community College provides a Hospitality Management Program, good for workers interested in advancing to management.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting with entry-level roles and learning on the job builds competence and can lead to promotions.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Detroit
Popular fast food chains hiring Fast Food Workers in Detroit include:
- McDonald's
- Wendy's
- KFC
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Detroit Work At
Fast Food Workers typically find employment in a range of quick service food establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Well-known national and regional chains, which may offer structured pay scales and advancement opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These often have slightly higher price points and potentially higher wages than typical fast food outlets.
- Cafeterias and Food Courts: Employment in these settings can affect pay based on volume and location.
The type and prestige of the establishment affect pay, benefits, and work environment, with busy, high-profile chains often providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Detroit for Fast Food Workers
Fast Food Workers considering related career paths might explore roles offering different responsibilities or growth potential.
Related positions include Cashier, Cook, and Fry Cook, each offering varied duties in the food service industry with distinct salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Detroit
Fast Food Workers should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Visit the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity for state-specific labor information, including wages, working hours, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, check the U.S. Department of Labor website to understand minimum wage, overtime, and worker protections.