Explore Average Hourly Pay & Trends for US Part-Time Job Roles

us part time job salary insights reveal average hourly wages, top-paying sectors, and expert tips to boost earnings for students, freelancers, and side hustlers.

US part time job salary varies by industry, role, and location. On average, workers earn $12–$20 hourly. Students, retirees, and gig workers benefit most. Focus on roles in healthcare, tech, and logistics to maximize income. Use job boards and networking to discover higher-paying opportunities and improve long-term earning potential.

Part-time employment typically refers to working fewer hours than a full-time schedule, often defined as less than 35 hours per week. Individuals opt for part-time roles for diverse reasons, including pursuing education, managing family responsibilities, or supplementing income from other sources. The flexibility inherent in part-time positions makes them appealing to a broad spectrum of workers.​

Average Part-Time Salaries in the U.S.

As of February 2025, the average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls stood at $35.93. Specifically, private-sector production and nonsupervisory employees earned an average of $30.89 per hour during the same period. It's important to note that part-time workers often earn less per hour compared to their full-time counterparts, and they may not have access to the same benefits.​

Industry-Specific Part-Time Salaries

Earnings for part-time positions can vary significantly across different industries. Here's a snapshot of average hourly wages in key sectors:

Goods-Producing: $30.24 per hour. ​

Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: $25.64 per hour. ​

Information: $44.37 per hour. ​

Financial Activities: $38.99 per hour. ​

Professional and Business Services: $35.60 per hour.

Education and Health Services: $29.05 per hour.

Leisure and Hospitality: $17.04 per hour. ​

These figures highlight the substantial variation in part-time pay across different fields, emphasizing the importance of industry choice in potential earnings.​

High-Paying Part-Time Roles

Certain part-time positions offer notably higher wages. For instance:

Speech-Language Pathologist: Approximately $41 per hour. ​

Medical Writer: Around $39 per hour.

Project Manager: About $39 per hour.

Software Developer: Approximately $38 per hour. 

Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Around $37 per hour. ​

These roles often require specialized education and experience, reflecting their higher compensation levels.​

Factors Influencing Part-Time Salaries

Several elements impact the earnings of part-time workers:

Experience and Education: Advanced qualifications and extensive experience can lead to higher pay rates.​

Industry Demand: Sectors with high demand for skilled labor may offer better compensation to attract part-time employees.​

Geographic Location: Wages can vary based on the cost of living and demand for certain jobs in specific regions.​

Skill Set: Possessing specialized skills or certifications can enhance earning potential.​

Strategies to Maximize Part-Time Earnings

To enhance your income from part-time work, consider the following approaches:

Pursue In-Demand Skills: Invest in training and certifications that are highly sought after in lucrative industries.​

Negotiate Your Pay: Don't hesitate to discuss compensation with employers, especially if you bring valuable skills or experience to the table.​

Explore Multiple Roles: Combining several part-time positions can increase overall earnings and provide diverse experience.​

Stay Informed: Regularly research industry trends and salary benchmarks to ensure you're receiving fair compensation.​

Emerging Trends in Part-Time Employment

The part-time job market is evolving, influenced by factors such as technological advancements and shifting economic conditions:

Remote Work Opportunities: The rise of remote work has expanded the availability of part-time roles that can be performed from anywhere, offering greater flexibility and access to higher-paying positions.​

Gig Economy Growth: Platforms facilitating freelance and gig work have increased opportunities for part-time employment across various fields, allowing workers to choose projects that align with their skills and interests.​

Increased Wages in Certain Sectors: Some industries are recognizing the value of part-time workers and are offering competitive wages to attract and retain talent. For example, Bank of America has increased its minimum hourly wage to $24, moving closer to its goal of $25 by 2025.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of part-time job salaries in the U.S. empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences. By staying informed about industry trends, pursuing relevant skills, and strategically navigating the job market, you can optimize your earnings and find fulfilling part-time employment opportunities.