Exploring McDonald’s Wages in New York: Minimum Wage and Employee Earnings
What is the Minimum Wage in New York?
As of December 31, 2020, the minimum wage in New York is $12.50 per hour for most employees. However, for fast food chain workers, the minimum wage is $15.00 per hour throughout New York state. In New York City, the minimum wage is higher at $15.00 per hour for all industries. These rates are set to increase every year until they reach $15.00 per hour for all employees in New York state. In New York City, the minimum wage will reach $15.00 per hour on December 31, 2021.
McDonald’s Wages in New York
According to Glassdoor, the average hourly pay rate for a McDonald’s crew member in New York City is $11.93 per hour. This is lower than the minimum wage in New York City and below the average hourly wage of $12.50 for most employees in the state. However, McDonald’s offers opportunities for career advancement and higher pay rates for managerial roles. Additionally, the company provides benefits and a program called “Archways to Opportunity,” which offers educational opportunities to its employees.
Criticism of McDonald’s Wages
Despite offering opportunities for career growth and benefits, McDonald’s is criticized for its low wages. A report by the National Employment Law Project states that McDonald’s workers are paid an average of 25% less than what is required to meet basic needs in the United States. Nearly one-half of McDonald’s workers rely on public assistance to make ends meet. The Fight for $15 movement has called for higher wages for fast food workers, including McDonald’s employees.
McDonald’s has made changes to its policies in response to calls for higher wages. The company increased wages to $10 per hour for employees working at company-owned restaurants in 2015 and announced in 2019 that it would no longer lobby against minimum wage increases.
Conclusion
McDonald’s wages in New York have been a contentious issue. While the company offers opportunities for career growth and benefits, it continues to face criticism for its low wages and the number of employees who rely on public assistance. As the minimum wage continues to increase in New York state, it remains to be seen how McDonald’s will respond and whether it will continue to be a target for protests and calls for higher wages.