Fast Food Worker Salary in St. Louis, MO
Fast Food Workers in St. Louis, MO in 2025 earn about $13.90 per hour, which comes to around $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in St. Louis is growing positively by about 5% per year, indicating increased demand and expanding opportunities within the fast food sector locally.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in St. Louis, MO?
The earnings of a Fast Food Worker in St. Louis vary depending on experience level, but the figures below offer a general understanding of possible salaries.
| 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Generally, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips as their roles involve quick service and kitchen tasks without direct customer tipping interaction. Their total income mostly comes from wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn on average $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in St. Louis make slightly less with an average of $13.90 hourly and $28,912.00 annually. This slight difference can relate to local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas in St. Louis pay slightly higher wages for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Central West End: $17.60 per hour
These neighborhoods offer better compensation within the region, potentially due to higher customer traffic and living costs.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several factors impact the salary of Fast Food Workers in St. Louis:
- Experience: More experienced workers often earn better pay rates as they gain skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to multitask and provide quicker service can lead to higher hourly wages or bonuses.
- Type of Establishment: High-volume or franchise locations might offer higher wages or benefits.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may pay premiums.
- Local Economic Conditions: Areas with higher living costs often correlate with better pay.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in St. Louis
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in St. Louis involves key steps to build skills and credentials:
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Programs like the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program provide essential culinary and food safety skills applicable to fast food roles.
- Complete Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Missouri Food Handler Card are often required, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Friendly and effective communication increases chances of employment and promotion.
- Seek Entry Positions: Many start as Cashiers or Kitchen Assistants to gain experience.
- Advance Internally: With time, workers can move into supervisory or specialized roles.
- Consider Additional Culinary Training: Schools like L'École Culinaire offer practical hands-on experience that enhances hospitality career options.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in St. Louis
Some of the top employers looking for Fast Food Workers in St. Louis include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Culver's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in St. Louis Work At
Fast Food Workers in St. Louis primarily work in:
- Fast Food Chains: These typically offer standardized wages and opportunities for hourly raises or benefits depending on tenure.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Pay may be slightly higher and sometimes involve tip-sharing, though less common.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often provide better wages and enhanced skill requirements.
The nature and reputation of the establishment can influence compensation and growth opportunities, with chain locations offering structured pay scales.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider these options:
These careers include Cashier, Cook, and Fry Cook, which require related skills and offer various salary ranges within the industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in St. Louis
Fast Food Workers should understand relevant labor regulations and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage their finances effectively.
- Access federal labor laws and regulations via the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Local employment information and resources can be found through the City of St. Louis official website.