Fast Food Worker Salary in Philadelphia, PA
Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing job opportunities in the fast food and quick service industry within the city.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Philadelphia, PA?
Fast Food Worker salaries in Philadelphia can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Here's an overview of typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips as their roles focus on quick service and order preparation, with limited customer tipping interactions. Their compensation is primarily from wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Philadelphia vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 but remain competitive within local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Philadelphia for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer varied salary opportunities for Fast Food Workers:
- Center City: $15.50 per hour
- University City: $17.60 per hour
Workers in University City tend to earn the highest hourly wages, reflecting higher demand or cost of living in that neighborhood.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Philadelphia?
Several factors determine how much a Fast Food Worker can earn in Philadelphia:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced workers often receive higher wages or opportunities for raises.
- Skills and Efficiency: Fast and accurate service, customer handling, and multitasking skills can affect earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains, franchises, and independent eateries may offer different pay scales.
- Shift Timing: Evening or overnight shifts sometimes carry shift differentials that boost wages.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wages might adjust based on cost of living and competitive labor markets in Philadelphia.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Philadelphia
Becoming a Fast Food Worker in Philadelphia usually involves straightforward steps that anyone motivated can pursue.
- Gain Basic Training: While formal education is not always required, completing a food safety course such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can be highly beneficial.
- Local Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the Philadelphia Food Safety Certification ensures compliance with city health regulations and improves employment chances.
- Consider Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Community College of Philadelphia Culinary Arts Program or training at the JNA Institute of Culinary Arts offer foundational skills that may open doors to advancement opportunities.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Fast Food Workers often interact with customers; strong communication skills are valuable.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia
Philadelphia offers employment opportunities for Fast Food Workers at multiple national chains and local establishments, including:
- McDonald's
- Wendy's
- Burger King
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia Work At
Fast Food Workers typically find roles at various types of eateries, including:
- Fast Food Chains: These provide standardized roles with set pay scales and benefits.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer slightly higher wages and a different work environment.
- Local Independent Quick Service Eateries: Variability in wages depending on size and clientele.
Wage differences often reflect the size, brand, and customer volume of the establishment, with large chains generally providing more structured pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Philadelphia for Fast Food Workers
If you are exploring career options related to Fast Food Worker roles, consider these similar positions which require related skills and offer varying salaries:
These include Barista, Cashier, and Fry Cook roles, all commonly found in fast food or casual dining establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Philadelphia
Fast Food Workers should be informed about both local and federal labor laws to safeguard their rights and comply with tax obligations.
- Details on Pennsylvania state labor laws and regulations can be found at the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
- The City of Philadelphia Official Website provides resources related to local employment ordinances and worker protections.
- For federal labor standards and guidelines, the U.S. Department of Labor is an essential resource.