Panda Express Pay Per Hour (2026) & Hiring Age
Hourly Associate (all roles)s at Panda Express make about $16.72 an hour on average across the U.S.. Most locations hire from age 16. Figures are averages of self-reported pay published by ZipRecruiter; your offer depends on the state and the individual restaurant.
Panda Express Pay in California
Since April 2024, California requires fast-food chains with 60 or more locations nationwide to pay at least $20 an hour. Self-reported pay for team members at Panda Express in California averages about $19.08 (ZipRecruiter, September 2026). National averages include low-wage states, so the California figure is typically 35% to 45% higher.
Starting at Panda Express? Gear for Long Shifts
Most restaurant kitchens require slip-resistant shoes, and new crew members are usually expected to bring their own. These are the basics for eight-hour shifts on your feet.
Working at Panda Express — FAQ
How much does Panda Express pay per hour in 2026?
Hourly Associate (all roles)s at Panda Express earn about $16.72 an hour on average in the United States, according to ZipRecruiter (September 2026). Pay depends heavily on the state and on whether the restaurant is franchised.
How old do you have to be to work at Panda Express?
Panda Express hires from age 16. Some positions, including kitchen roles that use woks and fryers, may require applicants to be 18.
How much does Panda Express pay in California?
About $19.08 an hour for team members, according to ZipRecruiter (September 2026). California requires at least $20 an hour at fast-food chains with 60 or more locations nationwide.