Walt Disney World’s Hidden Costs: The Impact of Disney’s Wage Structure on the Greater Orlando Area

This report examines the impact of changes in the pay practices of Walt Disney World in the years from 1998 to 2006. One major change was the institution of a two-tier wage system that lowered the pay increases of new entrants to its labor force hired after December 12, 1998 compared to those hired on or before that date. This progressive lowering of wages has created a major “hit” to the greater Orlando economy.