Fast Food Worker Salary in Lexington, KY
Fast Food Workers in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $10.82 per hour, which translates to about $432.80 per week, $1,875.47 per month, and $22,505.60 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Lexington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the fast food industry in the area.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Lexington varies with experience and skill. Here is an overview of earnings at different stages of the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.59 | $343.60 | $1,486.53 | $17,867.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.82 | $432.80 | $1,875.47 | $22,505.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.64 | $545.60 | $2,363.73 | $28,371.20 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Lexington Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as their roles usually involve counter service or drive-thru work, where tipping is not customary.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $13.03 per hour, equating to roughly $27,102.40 per year.
In comparison, Fast Food Workers in Lexington earn less than the national average, with an hourly rate of $10.82 and an annual income of $22,505.60.
This difference can be influenced by local cost of living, economic factors, and labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Fast Food Workers
Nearby cities offer higher pay for Fast Food Workers, including:
- Paducah: $15.35 per hour
- Murray: $15.13 per hour
Considering opportunities in these areas may lead to better wages for Fast Food Workers willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Lexington?
Several important factors impact how much Fast Food Workers earn in Lexington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced workers who can multitask and work quickly tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast casual restaurants may offer better pay than traditional fast food chains.
- Shift Timing: Evening or overnight shifts can sometimes come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Location and Chain: Larger franchise locations or specialty fast food outlets might provide higher wages.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Lexington
Getting started as a Fast Food Worker usually involves:
- Basic Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification helps demonstrate understanding of food safety.
- State Certifications: Kentucky Food Manager Certification is beneficial for those seeking supervisory roles.
- Relevant Programs: Training through Bluegrass Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program can provide a solid foundation in food preparation.
- Hospitality Management Training: The University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism Program is ideal for those aiming to move up into management.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Lexington
The following employers frequently look to hire Fast Food Workers in Lexington:
- McDonald's
- Cook Out Restaurants
- KFC
- Aramark
- Encompass Health
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Lexington Work At
Fast Food Workers in Lexington typically find employment in:
- Fast Food Chains: Standard fast food outlets like McDonald's and KFC offer structured environments and consistent schedules but often have lower wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may pay better and provide more variety in work tasks.
- Catering and Food Service Companies: Companies like Aramark employ Fast Food Workers in diverse settings such as hospitals and event venues, sometimes with higher pay.
The type of establishment plays a key role in pay differences, with fast casual and catering companies often offering better salaries and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering roles similar to Fast Food Worker, here are some related positions:
These include Fry Cook, Cashier, and Cook, which involve related skills and duties within the food service and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Lexington
Fast Food Workers in Lexington should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws to ensure fair employment practices and proper tax handling.
- Review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment resources and labor laws can be found at the Kentucky Career Center.
- City regulations and local employment services are available through the Lexington, KY government website.