Fast Food Worker Salary in Oak Park, IL
Fast Food Workers in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.59 per hour, which translates to about $663.60 per week, $2,875.60 per month, and $34,507.20 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Oak Park is growing at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the fast food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Oak Park varies according to experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.49 | $619.60 | $2,679.73 | $32,155.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.59 | $663.60 | $2,870.60 | $34,507.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,068.80 | $36,940.80 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers in Oak Park typically do not earn tips as their role usually involves front-line service in quick-service restaurants where tipping is less common. Their income is mainly from wages rather than gratuities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
The national hourly average for Fast Food Workers is around $13.22 per hour, with a yearly salary averaging about $27,497.60.
By comparison, Fast Food Workers in Oak Park earn a higher wage at about $16.59 per hour and make roughly $34,507.20 annually. This higher local pay reflects living costs and the competitive fast food market in the Oak Park area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer the following wage premiums for Fast Food Workers:
- North Chicago: approximately 28.9% higher pay
- Chicago: approximately 23.5% higher pay
These percentages indicate that Fast Food Workers close to Oak Park in North Chicago and Chicago receive higher salaries, possibly due to a larger market size and demand dynamics.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors affect how much a Fast Food Worker can earn in Oak Park:
- Experience: More experienced workers often command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Proficiency in multitasking and customer service can lead to better pay or promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains with higher revenues or premium brands tend to offer better compensation.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand and Labor Market: Competitive markets with high demand increase wage levels.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Oak Park
Becoming a Fast Food Worker in Oak Park involves a few straightforward steps.
Firstly, obtaining certifications such as the Food Handler Certification, required in Illinois for all food service workers, is essential to meet health and safety regulations.
Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is a nationally recognized program that demonstrates food safety expertise and can enhance job prospects.
Local culinary education programs such as Triton College Culinary Arts Program and the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program in nearby Chicago also provide valuable foundational knowledge.
Practical experience through entry-level positions and on-the-job training remains a key path into the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Oak Park
Major fast food chains hiring in Oak Park include:
- McDonald's
- Chipotle
- Wingstop
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Oak Park Work At
Fast Food Workers in Oak Park typically work in various establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer standardized roles with often steady wages and opportunities for shift work.
- Casual Dining: May offer more interaction with customers and, in some cases, slightly higher pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually pay a bit more than basic fast-food outlets because of quality expectations and service demands.
The type of establishment can impact earning potential, with fast casual dining generally offering higher wages compared to traditional fast food outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in similar roles within the hospitality and food service industry, here are a few related careers:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and other Fast Food Worker positions, which share relevant skills and employment environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Oak Park
Fast Food Workers in Oak Park should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for guidelines on wages, working hours, and employee rights.
- For Illinois-specific employment rules and state unemployment insurance information, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.