Average Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Lake Charles, LA
In Lake Charles, LA, Fast Food and Counter Workers can expect an average annual salary of $24,650. This figure falls below the national average of $31,240, indicating a localized pay scale influenced by regional economic factors and the specific demands of the local labor market. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering a career in this sector within the area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $24,650 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 21.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $34,060.
- Outlook: The Lake Charles market for Fast Food and Counter Workers comprises a workforce of 1,680 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.68, the concentration of these roles is slightly below the national average, suggesting a stable but not overly saturated job market. The presence of 16.759 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent demand for these essential service positions.
Salary Overview
The average Fast Food and Counter Workers in Lake Charles, LA earns-21.1%below the national average.
$11.9
$474
$2,054
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Lake Charles is not provided, it is 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 upward trajectory, even if modest, reflects the ongoing need for these roles and the industry's efforts to retain staff in a dynamic labor environment.
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Distribution in Lake Charles, LA
Career progression for Fast Food and Counter Workers typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior roles, such as shift supervisor or assistant manager. Salary increases are directly tied to accumulating experience, demonstrating leadership potential, and taking on greater responsibilities. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries signifies clear opportunities for advancement and increased earning capacity within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $17,370 | $8.4 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $18,488 | $8.9 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $22,630 | $10.9 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $30,813 | $14.8 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $34,060 | $16.4 |
Detailed Fast Food and Counter Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$24,650
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$24,650
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $24,650 in Lake Charles, LA, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that income is comparable to the national standard, making the overall financial picture relatively balanced for residents.
Job Market Context
1,680
Total Jobs
16.759
Per 1K Jobs
0.68
Location Quotient
Lake Charles, LA has 0.68x the national average concentration of Fast Food and Counter Workers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.68 for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Lake Charles suggests that this profession is less concentrated in the area compared to the national average. This could imply a less competitive job market for employers seeking staff, but also potentially fewer specialized opportunities for workers seeking rapid career advancement within this specific niche.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Fast Food and Counter Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $25,770↑ 5% | 56 mi |
| Lafayette, LA Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $25,080↑ 2% | 70 mi |
| Alexandria, LA Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $23,700↓ 4% | 87 mi |
Comparing salaries near Lake Charles, LA
Hiring Fast Food and Counter Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Fast Food and Counter Workers make in Lake Charles, LA?
The median annual salary for a Fast Food and Counter Workers in Lake Charles, LA is $24,650. This typically ranges from $17,370 for entry-level positions to $34,060 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Lake Charles, LA is 21.1% lower than the national median of $31,240.
Is Lake Charles, LA a lucrative place for Fast Food and Counter Workerss?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $24,650 is significantly lower than the national average of $31,240. However, the cost of living is at the national average, meaning the lower salary's purchasing power is somewhat preserved.
Is Lake Charles, LA a good place to live for Fast Food and Counter Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Lake Charles, LA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Lake Charles, LA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($25,770) and Lafayette, LA.
What is the average hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Lake Charles, LA?
Based on the annual salary of $24,650 and assuming a standard 40-hour work week, the approximate hourly wage is around $11.85. This is below the national average hourly rate.
How does the number of Fast Food and Counter Workers jobs compare nationally?
With 16.759 jobs per 1,000 workers, Lake Charles has a slightly lower concentration of these roles than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.68.
Are there significant salary differences based on experience in Lake Charles?
Yes, experience plays a crucial role. Entry-level positions will command lower salaries, while those with supervisory experience or in management roles can expect significantly higher compensation, reflecting career progression.
Does the cost of living in Lake Charles affect the value of the salary?
The cost of living in Lake Charles is at the national average (100). This means that the $24,650 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being a lower nominal figure.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,680 employees in the Lake Charles, LA area with a job density of 16.759 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 Lake Charles, LA