The Harsh Reality: Disney Cast Members Working 100 Hours a Week to Survive
Since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, life has become increasingly difficult for Disney World cast members. Although the union representing 45,000 Walt Disney World Resort employees secured a well-deserved raise last year, the cost of living in Central Florida has soared, making it challenging for many to get by.
Wage Increases and Living Costs
The average salary for unionized Disney World cast members has risen to $18 an hour. Despite this increase, finding affordable housing remains a significant challenge for those earning under $55,000 a year, which includes most cast members.
While wages have improved, state and local governments have been cracking down on homeless encampments and people sleeping in their cars, criminalizing these practices. This puts additional pressure on cast members who must make tough decisions about their future.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
A new study highlights the struggles faced by Disney Resort cast members. While about two-thirds of Disney workers are in a union, those who are not make significantly less than the $18-an-hour unionized employees. The National Low Income Housing Commission’s study reveals that the average worker in Florida would need to work over 100 hours a week to make ends meet.
Lee Miller, an expert in affordable housing in Central Florida, explains:
“I believe it, that’s the sad thing—today’s wages do not match the cost of living here. Prices are increasing because wages need to go up. It’s hard to find that balance, and I’m not sure what needs to give.”
The Reality for Disney Cast Members
The report found that a Disney cast member must earn $29.33 an hour to afford a one-bedroom apartment in Central Florida. For those earning the minimum wage of $12 an hour, it would require working 117 hours a week to afford a two-bedroom apartment.
The Service Trades Council Union, representing 45,000 Disney employees, negotiated a raise for its members last year. They will eventually make $20 an hour, but even that is insufficient to cover living costs in Florida.
If Disney employees worked over 100 hours a week to earn a living wage, they would have only 68 hours left for sleep, commuting, and personal time.
A Call for Change
While Disney cast members create magical experiences for guests, it’s important to recognize the financial challenges they face. The Walt Disney Company has the means to pay their employees more, which would significantly improve their quality of life outside the parks.
