Jobs That Pay $12 Per Hour: Entry-Level Opportunities (2026)
Find 15 jobs that pay around $12 per hour and learn how to advance quickly to higher-paying positions.
While $12/hour is below the national average, it serves as an entry point for many workers entering the labor force. In states where $12 meets or exceeds the minimum wage, these positions provide a starting foundation to build experience and move toward higher-paying roles.
What $12/Hour Means
- Weekly: $480
- Monthly: $2,080
- Annual: $24,960
- After taxes: ~$22,000 – $23,200
15 Jobs at the $12/Hour Level
| Job | Typical Pay | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Fast-Food Crew Member | $11 – $14 | None |
| Retail Cashier | $11 – $13 | None |
| Grocery Store Clerk | $11 – $14 | None |
| Dishwasher | $11 – $13 | None |
| Parking Lot Attendant | $11 – $14 | None |
| Movie Theater Worker | $11 – $13 | None |
| Kennel Assistant | $11 – $14 | None |
| Car Wash Attendant | $11 – $13 | None |
| Host/Hostess | $11 – $14 | None |
| Laundry Worker | $11 – $13 | None |
| Busser | $11 – $13 + tips | None |
| Seasonal Farm Worker | $11 – $14 | Physical fitness |
| Amusement Park Worker | $11 – $13 | None |
| Gas Station Attendant | $11 – $13 | None |
| Library Aide | $11 – $14 | None |
Moving Up From $12/Hour
The fastest paths from $12/hour to $15-20+/hour:
- Retail cashier → Shift supervisor: 6-12 months, +$2-4/hour
- Fast-food crew → Assistant manager: 6-18 months, +$3-6/hour
- Get a forklift certification: 1 day, opens warehouse jobs at $16-20/hour
- Get a food handler's certificate: Opens better-paying kitchen and catering jobs
- Complete a CNA program: 4-8 weeks, healthcare jobs at $15-18/hour
FAQ
Can you survive on $12 an hour?
It's very difficult without assistance, roommates, or a second income source. The MIT Living Wage for a single adult ranges from $14-22/hour depending on the county. At $12/hour, budgeting tightly and living in a low-cost area is essential.
Which states still have a minimum wage around $12?
Federal minimum is still $7.25, but many states have raised theirs above $12. States like Georgia, Wyoming, and Texas still follow federal minimum, though most employers in metro areas pay above it. Check your state's labor department for current rates.