Fast Food Worker Salary in St. Petersburg, FL
Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.36 per hour, which amounts to about $654.40 per week, $2,835.73 per month, and $34,028.80 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg shows positive momentum, with a forecasted growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the fast food sector.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in St. Petersburg, FL?
Fast Food Worker salaries in St. Petersburg fluctuate based on experience and employer, but the following table gives a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.36 | $654.40 | $2,835.73 | $34,028.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips, as the role primarily involves food preparation and customer service transactions where tipping is uncommon.
Fast Food Worker Salary in St. Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $18.00 per hour, which comes to approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to this national average, Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $16.36 and an annual salary of around $34,028.80. Local market conditions and cost of living may contribute to this variation.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Petersburg for Fast Food Workers
Some of the highest-paying nearby neighborhoods include:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Historic Old Northeast: $17.00 per hour
Fast Food Workers commuting to Downtown can expect slightly higher wages than other nearby neighborhoods, reflecting the area's vibrant economy.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in St. Petersburg?
Several factors affect the salary of a Fast Food Worker in St. Petersburg:
- Experience and Seniority: Workers with more years on the job typically earn higher wages or earn raises.
- Skills and Efficiency: Proficiency in multitasking and customer service can lead to better pay or advancement.
- Type of Establishment: Larger chains or fast casual restaurants may offer higher wages than smaller local outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials, increasing hourly wages.
- Local Economic Factors: Wage standards and competition in St. Petersburg influence pay levels.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in St. Petersburg
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in St. Petersburg involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Programs like the Pinellas Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational skills valuable in fast food roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to comply with food handling regulations.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: Learning from institutions such as St. Petersburg College Hospitality and Tourism Management can be helpful for career advancement.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Applying for roles in local fast food establishments provides practical experience essential to growth.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg
Some of the major companies actively hiring Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg include:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- Taco Bell
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg Work At
Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg typically find employment in:
- Fast Food Chains: These are the primary employers, offering standard wages and structured shifts.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Some offer slightly higher wages and a more upscale environment.
- Casual Dining: Though less common, some positions in casual dining require fast food related skills.
Wages can vary across these establishment types, with fast casual restaurants often paying more due to higher service standards and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Petersburg for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering roles similar to Fast Food Worker, here are some related positions you may explore for career growth or lateral movement:
These roles are Cashier, Busser, and Cook, which share some responsibilities or work environments with Fast Food Workers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in St. Petersburg
Fast Food Workers should stay informed about the labor laws and tax rules that affect their employment and wages.
- For federal labor laws and regulations visit the US Department of Labor website.
- Florida state-specific labor law information can be found on the official State of Florida website.
- Local employment resources and labor law updates are available at the City of St. Petersburg's website, stpete.org.