Average Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI
Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI, earn an average annual salary of $29,330. This figure is slightly below the national average of $31,240, reflecting localized economic conditions and demand within the region. While the nominal pay is a key factor, understanding the broader economic landscape of Kalamazoo-Portage is crucial for a complete picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $29,330 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $35,080.
- Outlook: The Kalamazoo-Portage area supports a robust workforce of 3,660 Fast Food and Counter Workers. With a Location Quotient of 1.25, this indicates a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand and a potentially stable job market for individuals in this sector within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI earns-6.1%below the national average.
$14.1
$564
$2,444
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this role in Kalamazoo-Portage is not provided, it's generally assumed that salaries for Fast Food and Counter Workers have seen incremental growth over the past four years, mirroring broader economic trends and inflation adjustments. This suggests a gradual upward trajectory in earning potential for dedicated individuals in this field.
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Distribution in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI
Career progression in the Fast Food and Counter Worker field typically leads to increased earning potential. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while experienced workers and those in supervisory roles can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in pay signify the opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility within the industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $23,220 | $11.2 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $21,998 | $10.6 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $28,840 | $13.9 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $36,663 | $17.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $35,080 | $16.9 |
Detailed Fast Food and Counter Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$29,330
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$29,330
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $29,330 in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is comparable to the national standard, making the nominal income effectively neutral in terms of affordability when compared to other regions.
Job Market Context
3,660
Total Jobs
30.595
Per 1K Jobs
1.25
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.25, Kalamazoo-Portage, MI has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Fast Food and Counter Workers roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.25 for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kalamazoo-Portage signifies that this sector is more concentrated in this metropolitan area than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for these services and potentially more job opportunities relative to other industries when compared to the nation as a whole.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Fast Food and Counter Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Battle Creek, MI Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $29,720↑ 1% | 18 mi |
| Elkhart-Goshen, IN Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $28,440↓ 3% | 45 mi |
| Niles, MI Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $29,570↑ 1% | 45 mi |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $29,550↑ 1% | 48 mi |
| South Bend-Mishawaka, IN-MI Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $28,280↓ 4% | 54 mi |
Comparing salaries near Kalamazoo-Portage, MI
Hiring Fast Food and Counter Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Fast Food and Counter Workers make in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI?
The median annual salary for a Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI is $29,330. This typically ranges from $23,220 for entry-level positions to $35,080 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI is 6.1% lower than the national median of $31,240.
Is Kalamazoo-Portage, MI a lucrative place for Fast Food and Counter Workerss?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.The average salary is slightly below the national average, and the cost of living is exactly at the national average, indicating comparable earning potential and purchasing power.
Is Kalamazoo-Portage, MI a good place to live for Fast Food and Counter Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Kalamazoo-Portage, MI?
Some top paying nearby cities include Battle Creek, MI ($29,720) and Elkhart-Goshen, IN.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers compare nationally?
With 30.595 jobs per 1,000 workers, Kalamazoo-Portage has a slightly higher density of Fast Food and Counter Worker positions compared to the national average, indicating a relatively active local market.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for this role?
An LQ of 1.25 means that Fast Food and Counter Workers are 25% more concentrated in Kalamazoo-Portage than in the average U.S. location, suggesting a stronger presence and potentially more opportunities in this field.
Does experience impact salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kalamazoo-Portage?
Yes, as with most roles, experience is a key factor. Entry-level positions will offer lower pay, while seasoned workers and those in supervisory roles can expect to earn more, reflecting increased skills and responsibilities.
How does the cost of living affect the $29,330 salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the $29,330 salary has the same purchasing power in Kalamazoo-Portage as the national average salary has nationally, making it a neutral factor for affordability.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 3,660 employees in the Kalamazoo-Portage, MI area with a job density of 30.595 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Fast Food and Counter Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Kalamazoo-Portage, MI