Average Cooks, Fast Food Salary in Odessa, TX
In Odessa, Texas, Cooks, Fast Food earn an average annual salary of $27,630. This figure is notably below the national average of $31,130, indicating that local market dynamics and potentially a different cost structure influence compensation in this sector. The specific economic landscape of Odessa shapes the earning potential for these essential service roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $27,630 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $38,700.
- Outlook: The local market for Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX, comprises a workforce of 270 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.78, the concentration of these jobs is slightly below the national average. This suggests a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, demand for fast food cooks within the Odessa area, implying a consistent need for these professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX earns-11.2%below the national average.
$13.3
$531
$2,303
Cooks, Fast Food Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Odessa's fast food cook salaries is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in line with national wage growth over the past four years. Economic factors and inflation typically drive modest annual increases in compensation for service industry roles, suggesting that the $27,630 average may have seen incremental growth.
Cooks, Fast Food Salary Distribution in Odessa, TX
Salary progression for Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX, typically correlates with experience and skill development. Entry-level positions will likely fall at the lower end of the pay scale, while experienced cooks or those in supervisory roles can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear career progression pathways within the fast food industry, rewarding dedication and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $21,720 | $10.4 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $20,723 | $10 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $27,830 | $13.4 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $34,538 | $16.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $38,700 | $18.6 |
Detailed Cooks, Fast Food Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$27,630
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$27,630
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary for Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX, stands at $27,630. This nominal income aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. Therefore, the purchasing power of this salary in Odessa is comparable to the national average, meaning that while the salary is below the national average, the cost of living does not exacerbate the difference.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
3.401
Per 1K Jobs
0.78
Location Quotient
Odessa, TX has 0.78x the national average concentration of Cooks, Fast Food jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
With a Location Quotient of 0.78, the job market for Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX, is less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while there is a presence of these roles, the market is not saturated, and the demand is relatively stable. It indicates a moderate level of competition, with opportunities available but not overwhelmingly abundant compared to national benchmarks.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Cooks, Fast Food
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Midland, TX Cooks, Fast Food Salary | $29,290↑ 6% | 17 mi |
Comparing salaries near Odessa, TX
Hiring Cooks, Fast Foods?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cooks, Fast Food make in Odessa, TX?
The median annual salary for a Cooks, Fast Food in Odessa, TX is $27,630. This typically ranges from $21,720 for entry-level positions to $38,700 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Odessa, TX is 11.2% lower than the national median of $31,130.
Is Odessa, TX a lucrative place for Cooks, Fast Foods?
No, Odessa, TX is not a particularly lucrative place for Cooks, Fast Food based on average earnings.The average salary of $27,630 is below the national average, and while the cost of living is on par with the national average, it does not offset the lower nominal wage.
Is Odessa, TX a good place to live for Cooks, Fast Foods?
The Cost of Living Index in Odessa, TX is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Odessa, TX?
Some top paying nearby cities include Midland, TX ($29,290) and others.
How does experience affect a fast food cook's salary in Odessa, TX?
Experience significantly impacts earnings, with entry-level positions offering lower pay and senior or supervisory roles commanding higher salaries, reflecting increased responsibility and skill.
What is the concentration of fast food cooks in Odessa, TX compared to the nation?
The concentration, measured by the Location Quotient, is 0.78, which is below the national average of 1.0, indicating a slightly lower prevalence of these jobs relative to the overall workforce.
How does the cost of living in Odessa, TX compare to the national average?
Odessa, TX has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average, meaning the general cost of goods and services is comparable nationwide.
What is the total number of fast food cooks employed in Odessa, TX?
There are approximately 270 Cooks, Fast Food employed in Odessa, TX, representing a segment of the local service industry workforce.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Odessa, TX area with a job density of 3.401 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 Odessa, TX