What's a Normal Payment for a Job?

I'm curious about what the normal hourly wage is for someone like me who's just starting out in their first part-time job. What should I expect to earn, especially in entry-level positions?

Hourly wages for jobs can vary widely based on factors such as the type of work, industry, location, and state and local minimum wage laws. However, for entry-level positions, you might expect to earn around the federal minimum wage, which is $7.25 per hour as of 2024.

Some positions may offer slightly higher wages, especially in areas with higher costs of living or in industries that typically pay more, even at the entry level. For example, in 2022, Amazon announced a starting wage of at least $15 per hour for all U.S. employees, including part-time, temporary, and seasonal workers.

However, keep in mind that some states and cities have their minimum wage laws that are higher than the federal minimum. For instance, San Francisco currently has a minimum wage of $16.51 per hour (as of 2024), and Washington D.C. has a minimum wage of $15.20 per hour. Thus, if your job is located in a region with a higher minimum wage, you can expect to earn at least that amount per hour.

In other types of jobs, like waitstaff roles, you may be paid less than the minimum wage in hourly wages, but tips are expected to raise your overall earnings to at least the minimum wage. If they don't, employers are legally obligated to make up the difference.

Remember, this is just a ballpark figure, and actual wages can vary. It's important to research your specific job title and location to get a more accurate idea of what to expect. Sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, or Indeed can often provide specific salary data for many jobs and locations.