Hobby Lobby pay rates start at $18.50 per hour for full-time employees, significantly exceeding federal minimum wage. The company has publicly emphasized valuing its employees through competitive wages. Hobby Lobby has steadily increased base pay over the past decade. Current rates vary slightly by role and region, but all exceed retail industry standards.
Setting the Stage: Why Hobby Lobby Pay Rates Matter
Let’s face it, retail jobs don’t have the best rep when it comes to pay. But Hobby Lobby? It’s bucking the trend. Instead of scraping the bottom of the minimum wage barrel, this company is raising eyebrows by putting real value on your time.
Sarah, who joined in 2022 as a stock associate, couldn’t believe her first paycheck. “$18.50 an hour? I thought it was a mistake,” she laughed. That wage sent a clear message: her work mattered. You’ll find similar stories all over: online reviews, social media, word of mouth. Employees aren’t just earning, they’re feeling respected.
What New Employees Earn at Hobby Lobby
Here’s something refreshing: Hobby Lobby doesn’t mess around with entry-level pay. Since early 2022, new full-time hires have earned $18.50 per hour. And starting October 2024? That jumps to $19.25. Pretty solid, right?
Let’s put that in perspective:
- Hobby Lobby: $18.50 (2022), $19.25 (2024)
- Michaels: $13.00
Not hard to see who’s leading the pack. If you’re eyeing a retail gig that respects your hustle, this might be it.
Hobby Lobby’s Internal Minimum Wage Policy
Most companies stick to the legal bare minimum. Not Hobby Lobby. They voluntarily boosted wages to $15/hour in 2014. Yeah, you read that right, 2014.
Why? Because people matter. Numbers aside, this is about dignity. Marcus, who left a chain drugstore to work here, said it best: “The difference? Night and day. I actually feel human here.”
The company’s internal minimum wage isn’t just a policy, it’s a principle.
Data Snapshot: Hobby Lobby Wages
| Role / Category | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time Cashier | ~$13/hr | — |
| Full-time Stocker | ~$17/hr | ~$35,360 |
| Entry-level (2022) | $18.50/hr | ~$38,500 |
| Starting Full-time (2024) | $19.25/hr | ~$40,000 |
| Warehouse Worker | ~$18.50/hr | ~$38,400 |
| Department Manager | ~$18.99/hr | — |
| Store Manager | — | $57,000–$97,000 |
| Creative Director / Lawyer | $59–65/hr | — |
Data sourced from Glassdoor, Indeed, Retail Dive, and company announcements.
Tracking Wage Growth at Hobby Lobby Over the Years
Hobby Lobby’s wage growth looks more like a ladder than a flat line. Here’s the climb:
- 2010: ~$11.50/hr
- 2014: $15.00/hr
- 2020: $17.00/hr
- 2022: $18.50/hr
- 2024: $19.25/hr (announced)
That’s a consistent upward trend—not reactive, but intentional. And in an industry where “raise” often means a nickel or dime, this matters. A lot.
Does Hobby Lobby Pay Differ by State or Store?
You might be wondering, does location matter? It does, but only a little. The company keeps its base rate high across all states. But in pricier places like California or New York? Expect a little bump.
And yes, some stores in higher-cost markets offer bonuses or pay adjustments. But overall? Hobby Lobby ensures its people earn more than just enough.
How Much Do Different Roles at Hobby Lobby Make?
Time for the nitty-gritty. What do different roles actually pay? Here’s a breakdown:
- Part-time Cashier: ~$13.05/hr
- Full-time Stocker: ~$17/hr
- Entry-Level Associate: $18.50/hr (2022)
- Dept. Manager: ~$18.99/hr
- Store Manager: $57,000–$97,000/year
- Creative Director: $59–$65/hr
Whether you’re just starting or managing a team, the numbers stack up well against industry norms.
Understanding Pay Type Differences at Hobby Lobby
Here’s where it gets interesting: hourly versus salaried. Most in-store employees are hourly, every minute worked counts. Salaried folks, usually in corporate or management, get a competitive annual package.
One department head told us, “We’re not glued to the clock, but we know our time’s valued. That’s rare.”
You don’t just punch a clock, you build something.
What Else Do Hobby Lobby Employees Receive?
Wages are just one part of the package. Here’s what else you can expect:
- Health insurance
- Matched 401(k)
- Paid vacation and personal days
- Employee discounts
- Stores closed on Sundays
Yup, no Sundays. That’s practically unheard of in retail. These benefits go beyond the paycheck—they build loyalty.
How Time and Flexibility Factor Into Compensation
Let’s talk time. Hobby Lobby gets that you have a life. Their scheduling is consistent, their overtime is minimal, and yes, they actually give you Sundays off.
Whether you’re a student balancing classes or a parent juggling school drop-offs, their flexibility makes it doable. It’s about more than money, it’s about having control over your time.
What Real Workers Say About Hobby Lobby’s Pay
People talk. And when they talk about Hobby Lobby, here’s what comes up:
- Better-than-average wages
- Regular raises
- Respectful workplace
- Pay that reflects effort
Olivia, a part-time team member and full-time student, summed it up: “I can pay rent and save a little, too. That’s never happened before.”
It’s not just a job. It’s stability.
Public Perception and Media Narratives on Pay
The media’s been watching. Hobby Lobby has made headlines for doing what few others dare: raising pay ahead of demand. Sure, critics exist. But when it comes to wages? They’ve earned their gold star.
Ever Googled “Does Hobby Lobby really pay $19/hour?” You’re not alone. And the answer? Yes, starting October.
Is the Pay at Hobby Lobby Worth It?
Let’s wrap this up. If you’re hunting for a job that pays well, offers real benefits, and treats your time like it matters, Hobby Lobby checks the boxes.
Plenty of companies talk about valuing employees. Hobby Lobby puts its money where its mission is. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to switch lanes, this might be your next best move.
