# Jobs That Pay $12 Per Hour: Entry-Level Options | Jobs Near Me

> Explore 15 jobs paying $12/hour and learn the fastest paths to advance to $15-20+/hour 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.

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