Average Cooks, Fast Food Salary in Kansas
Cooks in fast-food establishments across Kansas can expect an average annual salary of $28,140. This figure falls below the national average of $31,130, suggesting that regional economic factors and the overall demand for these roles in Kansas influence compensation levels. The specific economic landscape and the concentration of fast-food businesses within the state play a significant role in shaping these salary outcomes.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $28,140 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 32.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $36,520.
- Outlook: The Kansas market for fast-food cooks comprises a workforce of 2,150 individuals, with a Location Quotient of 0.35, indicating a lower concentration compared to the national average. This suggests that while the job title exists, the demand or prevalence of these roles is not as high as in other states. The rate of 1.505 jobs per 1,000 workers further reinforces this, pointing to a relatively stable but not rapidly expanding job market for this specific occupation in Kansas.
Salary Overview
The average Cooks, Fast Food in Kansas earns-9.6%below the national average.
$13.5
$541
$2,345
Cooks, Fast Food Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for fast-food cooks in Kansas is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery, inflation, and potential minimum wage adjustments typically contribute to incremental increases in hourly wages, which would translate to a modest rise in the average annual earnings for cooks in the state.
Cooks, Fast Food Salary Distribution in Kansas
Salary progression for fast-food cooks in Kansas, as elsewhere, is typically tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while cooks with several years of experience, specialized skills, or supervisory responsibilities can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear career progression pathways, rewarding dedication and proficiency within the fast-food service industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $21,940 | $10.5 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $21,105 | $10.1 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $28,100 | $13.5 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $35,175 | $16.9 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $36,520 | $17.6 |
Detailed Cooks, Fast Food Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$28,140
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,087
Adjusted for COL (87.7)
The nominal average annual salary of $28,140 in Kansas for fast-food cooks should be viewed in the context of the local Cost of Living Index, which stands at 87.7. This index is notably below the national average of 100, meaning that everyday expenses such as housing, utilities, and groceries are generally more affordable in Kansas. Therefore, the lower salary may offer a comparable or even improved purchasing power for residents compared to higher-paying regions with a significantly higher cost of living.
Job Market Context
2,150
Total Jobs
1.505
Per 1K Jobs
0.35
Location Quotient
At 0.35x, Kansas has a notably lower concentration of Cooks, Fast Food jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
With a Location Quotient of 0.35, the market for fast-food cooks in Kansas is less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while opportunities exist, the field is not saturated, and the demand relative to the national landscape is lower. This could imply a more stable job market for experienced individuals but potentially fewer entry-level openings compared to states with a higher concentration of fast-food establishments.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Cooks, Fast Food
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Topeka, KS Cooks, Fast Food Salary | $29,510↑ 5% | 66 mi |
| Wichita, KS Cooks, Fast Food Salary | $26,750↓ 5% | 67 mi |
| Lawrence, KS Cooks, Fast Food Salary | $30,740↑ 9% | 84 mi |
Comparing salaries near Kansas
Hiring Cooks, Fast Foods?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cooks, Fast Food make in Kansas?
The median annual salary for a Cooks, Fast Food in Kansas is $28,140. This typically ranges from $21,940 for entry-level positions to $36,520 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kansas is 9.6% lower than the national median of $31,130.
Is Kansas a lucrative place for Cooks, Fast Foods?
No, Kansas is not a particularly lucrative place for Cooks, Fast Foods.The average annual salary of $28,140 is below the national average, and the job market concentration is lower than the national average.
Is Kansas a good place to live for Cooks, Fast Foods?
With a Cost of Living Index of 87.7 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Kansas?
Some top paying nearby cities include Topeka, KS ($29,510) and Wichita, KS.
How does the cost of living in Kansas affect the salary for fast-food cooks?
The cost of living in Kansas is 12.3% lower than the national average (index of 87.7 vs. 100). This means that the $28,140 salary, while lower than the national average, can potentially offer a similar or better standard of living due to lower expenses.
What is the job market like for fast-food cooks in Kansas?
The job market is less concentrated than the national average, with a Location Quotient of 0.35. This suggests a stable but not booming demand for these roles within the state.
How many fast-food cooks are there in Kansas?
There are approximately 2,150 fast-food cooks employed in Kansas, representing 1.505 jobs per 1,000 workers in the state's total workforce.
Can fast-food cooks expect salary increases with experience in Kansas?
Yes, like most professions, fast-food cooks in Kansas can expect their salaries to increase with accumulated experience, skill development, and potentially by taking on supervisory roles.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,150 employees in the Kansas area with a job density of 1.505 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Cooks, Fast Food • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Kansas