Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members to Receive 50 Percent Wage Increase by 2021

September 6, 2018 was an historic day for more than 37,000 Walt Disney World Cast Members in a variety of roles as Service Trades Council Union members overwhelmingly ratified a five-year contract that sets them on the path to $15 per hour starting wage by 2021.

The collective bargaining agreement demonstrates Disney's continued investment in the future of its Cast Members, and also represents one of the highest entry-level wages with the service industry in the United States. The new contract raises starting pay by 50 percent, and substantially increases the earning potential of current Cast Members whose pay is already above $10 an hour, giving them at least $4.75 an hour more by October 2021.

"Our 50 percent wage increase will have a real, meaningful impact on our Cast and their families–and is part of our commitment to the thousands of Cast Members who make magic for our Guests each and every day," said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "Increasing wages for Cast Members represents a significant investment in Central Florida, and will provide a powerful boost to the local economy."

This industry-leading shift to $15 an hour will be phased in over the next three years beginning in December when starting pay for hourly, non-tipped Cast Members will increase to $11 an hour. In March 2019, starting rates will rise to $12 an hour; $13 an hour in September 2019; $14 an hour in October 2020; and finally, $15 an hour October 2021.

Eligible Cast Members will also receive retroactive pay of 50 cents an hour or 3 percent, whichever is greater, dating back to Sept. 24, 2017. A one-time discretionary, $1,000 bonus will be given to eligible Cast Members. This collective bargaining agreement runs through October 2022.

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