Fast Food Worker in Santa Monica, CA
Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.00 per hour, translating to about $800.00 per week, $3,466.67 per month, and $41,600.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and increasing opportunities in this sector.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Santa Monica varies according to experience and employer. Below is a breakdown across several experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.81 | $712.40 | $3,090.93 | $37,091.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.33 | $933.20 | $4,018.13 | $48,505.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.24 | $1,289.60 | $5,589.87 | $67,059.20 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips since the nature of their service is often quick and transactional without direct tipping opportunities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, leading to roughly $30,160.00 annually.
Comparatively, Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica earn significantly more, at about $20.00 per hour and $41,600.00 per year, reflecting the higher cost of living and wage standards in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Fast Food Workers
The Fast Food Worker salaries in areas close to Santa Monica show variation:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $23.33 per hour
- Mid-City: $20.44 per hour
Workers in Downtown Santa Monica can expect better compensation compared to those in Mid-City.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Santa Monica:
- Experience: Workers with more years on the job tend to earn higher wages due to familiarity with operations and speed.
- Skillset: Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently can lead to higher pay or promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary between local fast food restaurants, national chains, and upscale quick-service venues.
- Location: Proximity to high-traffic or affluent areas can affect wage offerings.
- Certifications: Having food safety certificates might increase job prospects and salary potential.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Santa Monica
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Santa Monica can be achieved by following practical steps:
- Education and Training: Santa Monica College Culinary Arts Program and Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable preparation for roles in food service.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers.
- Gain Experience: Previous roles in customer service or food preparation can help secure employment.
- Apply to Fast Food Chains: Building experience with well-known employers can be advantageous.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica
Notable employers in the area actively hiring Fast Food Workers include:
- Del Taco
- Yoshinoya America, Inc.
- Sbarro
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica Work At
Fast Food Workers typically work in various types of establishments, including casual restaurants, fast casual dining, and national fast food chains.
The type of establishment can impact salary significantly. For instance, fast casual venues may offer better wages and tips than basic quick-service restaurants.
Larger chains sometimes provide benefits and structured wage increases, whereas independent fast food places might offer more flexible schedules but slightly lower pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering related hospitality roles, here are a few careers similar to Fast Food Worker:
These include Cashier, Barista, and Busser positions, all of which share elements of customer service and food handling tasks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Santa Monica
Fast Food Workers should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- State labor laws and regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For federal labor laws and resources, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.