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Universal Orlando Resort Boosts Starting Wage to $18.50 for Team Members
Universal Orlando Resort is leveling up—not just in epic attractions, but in wages too. Beginning September 17, 2025, the starting pay for Universal Orlando Team Members will rise to $18.50 an hour, marking a $1.50 increase over the current $17 base wage. Other roles across the resort are also expected to see corresponding increases, making this a widespread investment in the Universal team.
Related: Universal Parks CEO Says Epic Universe has Lots of Room to Expand
A Continued Commitment to Team Member Support
This upcoming wage increase is the latest in a series of moves by Universal to enhance Team Member benefits and recognize their contributions. The last bump came in June 2023, when wages rose to $17 per hour. That change also brought with it:
- Enhanced 401(k) match program
- Expanded tuition reimbursement
- Compassion leave
- Doubled parental leave
- Upgraded family planning benefits
- A revamped Team Member comp ticket system (now capacity-managed instead of block-out calendars)
- The debut of the Applause Recognition Program
Going even further back, Universal made headlines in 2021 when it became one of the first theme parks in Florida to raise its starting wage to $15 per hour.
New Look, Same Spirit
Earlier this year, Universal Team Members also got a wardrobe upgrade—at least in the name tag department. New tags now celebrate all four Universal Orlando parks, including:
- 🌋 Krakatau from Universal Volcano Bay
- 🏛️ Pharos Lighthouse from Islands of Adventure
- 🌐 The iconic Universal Globe
- 🌀 Chronos from the soon-to-open Epic Universe
- 🎬 The classic Universal Studios Florida arch
Whether you’re ringing up Butterbeer or operating a high-speed coaster, these new name tags proudly showcase what makes Universal a dynamic destination.
Related: Universal Orlando Ramping Up the Horror at Halloween Horror Nights 34
A Step in the Right Direction
While this wage increase doesn’t match Walt Disney World’s current minimum of $19, it puts Universal squarely in line with industry standards, and shows their continued push to make the resort a competitive and supportive workplace.
Between new benefits, better wages, and the excitement building around Epic Universe, it’s a good time to be on Team Universal.
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