Fast Food Worker Salary in Nashville, TN
Fast Food Workers in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $12.50 per hour, which translates to about $500.00 per week, $2,166.67 per month, and $26,000.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Nashville is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increased opportunities in the quick-service restaurant industry over the coming years.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Nashville can vary based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Nashville Earn Tips?
Typically, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips since the service model usually involves counter or drive-thru transactions. Earnings for this role mainly come from hourly wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $11.80 per hour, translating to about $24,544 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Nashville earn slightly more at about $12.50 per hour and $26,000 annually. This could be influenced by regional wage standards and cost of living in Nashville.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Fast Food Workers
Nearby neighborhoods show some variance in pay rates for Fast Food Workers, including:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- Green Hills: $14.00 per hour
These areas offer higher wages than the city average, potentially reflecting more competitive markets or upscale establishments within these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors can influence how much a Fast Food Worker earns in Nashville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced workers may earn higher wages due to their proficiency in food preparation and customer service.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food restaurants located in busy commercial areas or those affiliated with national chains might offer better pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening, night, or weekend shifts may provide shift differentials or bonuses.
- Location within the City: Workers in neighborhoods with a higher cost of living or in upscale areas tend to have higher wages.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications can sometimes contribute to higher pay and better job stability.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Nashville
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Nashville involves several straightforward steps to improve your job prospects:
- Apply at Local Chains: Employers like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and Wendy’s regularly seek new team members with no prior experience required.
- Complete Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program or The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville Culinary Program can provide foundational skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are valuable in demonstrating knowledge of safe food handling.
- Acquire Server Permits if Needed: For jobs involving alcohol sales, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is mandatory.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Good communication and teamwork skills improve employability and wage prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Nashville
Some of the major companies hiring Fast Food Workers in Nashville include:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- Wendy's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Nashville Work At
Fast Food Workers in Nashville commonly find employment in various types of dining establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer steady shifts and are the most typical employers, often with standardized pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Sometimes offering higher wages than quick-service chains, these establish stronger focus on quality and customer experience.
- Casual Dining: Less frequent but possible workplaces, where workers may earn more or have different responsibilities.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary, with upscale or busier locations tending to offer higher pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in career paths similar to Fast Food Worker, you might consider exploring these related roles within the hospitality industry.
These include Cashier, Fry Cook, and Cook positions, which share overlapping duties or environments with Fast Food Workers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Nashville
Fast Food Workers in Nashville must stay informed about local and federal labor regulations and tax responsibilities.
- Information on Tennessee labor laws can be found at the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor laws and worker rights, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a comprehensive resource.