Fast Food Worker Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2026, 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 job market for Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach is experiencing positive growth of about 5% per year, signaling a steady demand for this role within the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Virginia Beach varies with experience level and employer. Below is an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pays across different experience tiers.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips since their roles mostly involve counter service or drive-thru operations with minimal direct tipping opportunities. Their earnings primarily come from hourly wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
On a national scale, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach make slightly less per hour at $13.90, earning about $28,912 annually. This difference reflects local economic conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay rates for Fast Food Workers:
- Norfolk, VA: $15.50 per hour
- Richmond, VA: $17.60 per hour
Fast Food Workers commuting to Richmond tend to earn more than those in Norfolk or Virginia Beach, reflecting localized market dynamics.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several factors contribute to differences in salary among Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Tenure: Workers with more years on the job or advanced skills in food preparation and customer service tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains with high volume or premium branding may offer better pay compared to smaller or independent outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening, night, or weekend shifts often come with higher pay rates or shift differentials.
- Skills and Certifications: Food safety certifications, speed, and customer interaction abilities can impact earning potential.
- Location Within Virginia Beach: Salaries can fluctuate depending on neighborhood and local economic conditions.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Virginia Beach
Getting started as a Fast Food Worker in Virginia Beach involves some straightforward steps, with additional training potentially boosting career prospects.
- Entry Requirements: Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent suffices to start working.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential can enhance job prospects and salary potential.
- Training Programs: Consider programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Virginia Wesleyan University to build relevant skills.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Fast Food Workers advance their careers through practical on-site training and demonstrating reliability and competency.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach
Major fast food chains actively hiring Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Chick-fil-A
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach Work At
Fast Food Workers commonly find positions across a range of fast food and casual dining establishments.
- Quick-Service Chains: High-volume restaurants that focus on fast and efficient service typically offer consistent schedules but often at lower pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer slightly higher wages and a more upscale working environment.
- Drive-Thru and Takeout: Workers specializing in drive-thru services may have different earning opportunities and job requirements.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary ranges, with fast casual usually providing better income compared to typical quick-service outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Fast Food Workers
For those interested in expanding their hospitality career beyond Fast Food Worker roles, here are a few closely related positions:
These include Cashier, Dishwasher, and Fry Cook positions, which involve overlapping skills and provide pathways for career advancement within the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Virginia Beach
Fast Food Workers should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on federal labor standards, wages, and workplace rights.
- Refer to the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry for state-specific labor laws and wage regulations.