Fast Food Worker Salary in Phoenix, AZ
Fast Food Workers in Phoenix, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $15.95 per hour, which equates to about $638.00 per week, $2,764.67 per month, and $33,176.00 per year.
The job demand for Fast Food Workers in Phoenix is growing positively at about 5% per year, signaling an encouraging outlook for employment opportunities in this sector.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Phoenix, AZ?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Phoenix varies depending on experience and employer. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,538.00 | $30,576.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.95 | $638.00 | $2,764.67 | $33,176.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.72 | $708.80 | $3,058.13 | $36,825.60 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Phoenix Earn Tips?
Generally, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips as the nature of their roles involves limited customer interaction requiring tipping. Their income mostly depends on hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Phoenix vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $13.20 per hour or about $27,456.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Phoenix earn higher wages, with an average of $15.95 per hour and $33,176.00 annually. This difference reflects regional economic factors and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Phoenix for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Fast Food Workers include:
- Scottsdale: $16.85 per hour
- Glendale: $16.23 per hour
Workers willing to commute to Scottsdale or Glendale could earn slightly more compared to Phoenix.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Phoenix?
The salary for a Fast Food Worker in Phoenix depends on several important factors:
- Experience: More experienced workers often command higher wages due to knowledge of workflow, equipment, and customer service.
- Skills: Speed, accuracy, and multi-tasking abilities can lead to raises or promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Working at well-known fast-food chains or higher-volume locations may provide better pay than smaller outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes offer premium pay rates.
- Location: Wages can vary depending on cost of living and competition within the local labor market.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Phoenix
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker requires few formal qualifications but can be enhanced with training and certifications.
- Culinary Arts Program at Phoenix College: Offers comprehensive training in culinary skills, preparing students for various food service roles.
- Hospitality Management Program at Arizona State University: Provides education in hospitality and restaurant management, beneficial for career advancement.
- Food Handler's Card: Mandatory certification in Arizona ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- ServSafe Certification: Nationally recognized program educating food service workers on sanitation and safety practices.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Phoenix
The fast-food industry in Phoenix features many prominent employers actively hiring workers, including:
- Wendy's
- McDonald's
- Burger King
- Taco Bell
- Chick-fil-A
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Phoenix Work At
Fast Food Workers in Phoenix typically work in a range of establishments, such as quick service restaurants (QSR), fast casual dining outlets, and some limited-service cafeterias.
The type of establishment impacts earnings, where fast casual restaurants often pay higher wages than traditional quick-service chains due to enhanced service models and food quality standards.
Additionally, locations with high customer volume or premium branding generally offer better pay and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Phoenix for Fast Food Workers
Workers seeking careers similar to Fast Food Workers can consider related roles with some overlap in skills and environment.
These positions include Fry Cook, Cashier, and Barista roles, all of which share responsibilities in food preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Phoenix
Fast Food Workers in Phoenix should be aware of labor regulations and tax requirements affecting their employment.
- State health and safety standards can be found at the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- Employment laws, wage standards, and worker protections are detailed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
- Federal labor laws and workplace standards are available through the U.S. Department of Labor.