Entry-Level Salary Guide

$8 an Hour is How Much a Year?

Crossing the federal minimum wage threshold is a first step in many careers. Let's break down the income potential and lifestyle reality of an $8 hourly wage.

Customize Your Calculation
$ / hr
×
hrs/wk
×
52 wks
=
$16,640

Quick Earnings Table

Pay Period Gross Pay
Yearly $16,640
Monthly $1,386.67
Bi-Weekly $640.00
Weekly $320.00
Daily (8h) $64.00

The Calculation Logic

Most payroll systems use a 52-week year with 40-hour work weeks. This leads to a standard 2,080-hour work year.

$8.00 × 40 hrs × 52 wks = $16,640

Overtime Scenarios

At $8/hr, your "Time and a Half" overtime rate is $12.00 per hour. Here is how that adds up:

45 Total Hours
$380.00 / wk
50 Total Hours
$440.00 / wk

5 Jobs Paying Around $8/Hour

  • Retail Sales Associate: Entry-level positions in states with low minimum wages.
  • Food Service Worker: Fast food or cafeteria roles.
  • Warehouse Loader: Basic physical labor roles.
  • Movie Theater Attendant: Common first job for students.
  • Daycare Assistant: Support roles in early childhood education.

Sample Monthly Budget ($8/hr)

This budget for $1,386.67 assumes a 15% tax/deduction rate, leaving roughly $1,180 net.

Rent (Roommate)$550
Groceries$250
Phone & Internet$80
Transit$60
Savings/Misc$240

How This Wage Compares

$7.25 (Fed Min)$15,080
$8.00 (This Rate)$16,640
$10.00$20,800
$15.00$31,200

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the annual salary for $8 an hour?

Working a full-time 40-hour week, an $8/hr wage translates to a gross annual salary of $16,640.

Is $8 an hour good pay?

In most U.S. states, $8/hr is just above the federal minimum wage ($7.25). While it is a starting point, it is generally considered an entry-level wage that requires careful budgeting for independent living.

How much is $8 an hour bi-weekly?

Your gross paycheck every two weeks (80 hours) would be $640.00.

What is $8 an hour monthly?

On average, an $8 hourly rate results in $1,386.67 per month before taxes.

How many work hours are in a year?

A standard full-time year is calculated as 2,080 hours (40 hours x 52 weeks).

Weekly Pay Calculator → Compare to $9/hr →