On TikTok, content creator @josueperniaa shared a glimpse into his work life in the United States, where he is employed in a kitchen preparing fried chicken, making sandwiches, and managing the service line. He disclosed in a video that he earns $16 per hour, a rate he finds reasonable. The job is “relatively easy,” and he saves on breakfast and lunch since he can eat at work. In closing, Josue asked, “And how much do you earn and what do you do?” which sparked a flood of responses from users sharing their own work experiences and salaries both inside and outside the U.S.
Among the most popular comments was from a user earning $24 an hour, joking about spending time in the bathroom. Another noted a $28 per hour wage in construction, but after expenses, it feels the same. A follower earning $25 an hour mentioned their $1,700 rent for a one-bedroom apartment, which Josue found “too much.” Others shared challenges, like a worker at a Mexican restaurant making $12 an hour serving food, and someone cleaning houses for $25 to $40 per hour, depending on hours worked.
Some suggested Josue could find better opportunities. A user remarked, “They pay you too little, my friend; some places offer $20 or $22 in restaurants,” to which Josue replied that it varies by state and individual expenses like rent. The comments highlighted diverse incomes and situations across different sectors: “I earn $52.25 an hour in Las Vegas in construction,” “$16 an hour at Chipotle,” “I work on a plantation for $15 an hour,” or “I’m at Amazon for $24 and also save on meals.” Even followers from Venezuela and other countries shared their wages and expressed aspirations to work in the U.S.
For some, not spending on daily meals is a significant perk. “Congrats, my friend, saving on lunch daily is a blessing,” one user wrote, while another pointed out they spend $15 a day just on lunch. On a different note, a user advised Josue to watch his diet and not eat fried chicken every day due to potential long-term health effects; Josue responded that his job offers more than just chicken.
Ultimately, this discussion highlighted the varying work experiences everyone has, with many considering seeking better opportunities or relocating to improve their situations. What’s your take on @josueperniaa’s salary and work conditions? Do you think the savings on food justify it, or would you look for something better?