Fruit Picking Jobs in the USA: If you’re searching for fruit picking jobs in the USA for 2025/2026, you’re not alone. Thousands of international workers travel to the United States every year to work on farms and orchards. These jobs are perfect for people who love the outdoors, want to earn money seasonally, and enjoy learning about American agriculture.
Overview of Fruit Picking Jobs in the USA
Fruit picking jobs involve harvesting ripe fruits like apples, oranges, strawberries, and grapes. These jobs are crucial to the agricultural industry and often open to foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. Most positions are temporary and seasonal, ranging from 3 to 6 months depending on the harvest season.
Why International Workers Choose the USA
The USA offers excellent opportunities for international workers because of:
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High demand for labor in the agricultural sector.
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Fair wages and benefits under government regulations.
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Cultural exchange experiences, allowing workers to meet new people and explore new states.
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Legal work visas like the H-2A visa that protect workers’ rights.
Top States for Fruit Picking in 2025/2026
California
California is the biggest agricultural producer in the USA. Workers can find jobs picking strawberries, grapes, and citrus fruits. The Central Valley region is particularly famous for its large-scale farms.
Washington
Known for its apple orchards, Washington provides thousands of jobs each year. Seasonal work usually starts around late summer through early fall.
Florida
If you prefer warmer weather, Florida is ideal. The state is known for oranges, grapefruits, and lemons. Harvesting usually starts in the winter season.
Oregon
Oregon offers fruit picking jobs in blueberries, cherries, and pears. Many farms provide housing and transport for seasonal workers.
Texas
Texas offers fruit picking roles for melons, peaches, and citrus fruits. The work environment is warm, and farms are spread throughout southern Texas.
Popular Fruits Harvested in the USA
Apples
Harvested mainly in Washington and New York between August and October.
Strawberries
Picked in California and Florida from spring to early summer.
Blueberries
Harvest seasons start around May and last through August in states like Michigan and Oregon.
Grapes
Picked between August and November in California’s Napa Valley and Central Valley.
Citrus Fruits
Harvested mainly in Florida, California, and Texas from November to May.
Seasonal Demand for Fruit Pickers
The demand for fruit pickers varies by season and crop type.
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Spring: Strawberries, cherries
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Summer: Blueberries, peaches, apples
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Fall: Grapes, pumpkins, pears
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Winter: Oranges, lemons
Planning your application based on these seasons increases your chances of being hired.
Average Salary and Wages for Fruit Picking Jobs
Most fruit pickers earn between $12 to $18 per hour, depending on experience and location. Some farms pay per basket or weight picked, known as piece-rate pay. Many farms also offer overtime pay and free accommodation to maximize savings.
Accommodation and Worker Benefits
Farm employers often provide:
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Free or subsidized housing
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Transportation to and from the field
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Protective gear and safety training
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Healthcare and insurance benefits (for H-2A visa holders)
Living on the farm saves money and builds a strong sense of community among workers.
Visa Options for International Workers
H-2A Visa Program
The H-2A visa allows international workers to come to the USA temporarily for agricultural jobs. Employers must show that they cannot find local workers and that the job is temporary.
Seasonal Work Permits
For short-term or repeated seasonal work, some countries have bilateral agreements with the USA that simplify the visa process.
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in the USA
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Search for available jobs on reputable websites like SeasonalJobs.dol.gov or Indeed.com.
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Check that the employer is authorized to hire foreign workers under the H-2A program.
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Submit your CV and any relevant work experience.
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Wait for the job offer and visa sponsorship letter before applying for the visa.
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Attend your visa interview and prepare for travel.
Top Recruiting Companies and Websites
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SeasonalJobs.dol.gov
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AgCareers.com
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PickYourOwn.org
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FarmWorkerJobs.com
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USAJobs.gov
These platforms regularly list legitimate fruit picking and farm work positions across the country.
Skills and Requirements Needed
To be a successful fruit picker, you should:
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Be physically fit for outdoor work.
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Have basic English communication skills.
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Be able to work in different weather conditions.
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Follow safety and hygiene rules.
Experience is an advantage, but many farms offer on-the-job training.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While fruit picking is rewarding, it can be physically demanding. Long hours, sun exposure, and repetitive tasks can be tiring.
To overcome these:
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Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
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Take short breaks during the day.
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Stretch regularly to avoid strain injuries.
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Maintain a positive mindset—remember, it’s seasonal and pays well!
Safety Measures and Worker Rights
All agricultural employers must follow OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards. Workers have the right to:
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Safe working conditions
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Proper safety equipment
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Fair wages and breaks
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Medical assistance for work injuries
Never hesitate to report unsafe conditions.
Future Outlook for Agricultural Jobs in the USA
With growing demand for fresh produce, the U.S. agricultural industry will continue to need foreign seasonal workers. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts a steady rise in H-2A visa approvals through 2026, making this an excellent time to apply.
Conclusion
The fruit picking jobs in the USA for international workers 2025/2026 offer an incredible opportunity to earn money, gain experience, and explore American culture. With good pay, fair treatment, and guaranteed seasonal work, this is a great way to start a new adventure abroad.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a fruit picking job without experience?
Yes, most farms provide basic training for new workers.
2. How long does the visa process take?
Typically, 2–3 months after receiving your job offer.
3. Are accommodations always provided?
Most H-2A employers offer free or low-cost housing to foreign workers.
4. What is the age limit for fruit picking jobs?
Usually, applicants must be 18 years or older.
5. How can I ensure my job offer is legitimate?
Always apply through official U.S. government websites or recognized recruitment agencies.