Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Appleton, WI
In Appleton, WI, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $31,540. This figure is slightly below the national average of $35,960, a common trend in markets where local economic factors and demand dynamics differ from the broader national landscape. These localized pay scales are often influenced by regional business costs and the specific concentration of these roles within the area's employment structure.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $31,540 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 28.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,730.
- Outlook: Appleton's job market for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations is substantial, with a total local workforce of 10,320 individuals employed in this sector. The Location Quotient of 0.94 indicates a concentration very close to the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for these roles within the community. This robust presence points to a healthy and ongoing need for skilled food service professionals in the Appleton area.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Appleton, WI earns-12.3%below the national average.
$15.2
$607
$2,628
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Appleton's Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery and evolving consumer spending habits typically drive wage growth in the service sector, suggesting that compensation for these roles has likely seen incremental increases, reflecting both inflation and demand.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Appleton, WI
Within the Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations field in Appleton, career progression typically leads to increased earning potential. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or supervisory responsibilities can achieve significantly higher compensation. The salary distribution, often represented by percentile gaps, clearly signifies these opportunities for advancement and greater financial reward as one climbs the career ladder.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $20,470 | $9.8 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $23,655 | $11.4 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $29,380 | $14.1 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $39,425 | $19 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $44,730 | $21.5 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$31,540
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$31,540
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $31,540 in Appleton, WI, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is equivalent to the national standard, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents. While the nominal salary is below the national average, the cost of living parity suggests that the take-home pay effectively covers essential expenses at a rate comparable to the rest of the country.
Job Market Context
10,320
Total Jobs
83.275
Per 1K Jobs
0.94
Location Quotient
Appleton, WI has 0.94x the national average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations 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 0.94, the job market for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Appleton, WI, is nearly on par with the national average in terms of concentration. This suggests a competitive yet stable environment where the number of jobs is proportionate to the national distribution. While not exceptionally concentrated, the steady presence indicates consistent opportunities for those seeking employment in this sector within the region.
Nearby Job Markets
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Comparing salaries near Appleton, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Appleton, WI?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Appleton, WI is $31,540. This typically ranges from $20,470 for entry-level positions to $44,730 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Appleton, WI is 12.3% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is Appleton, WI a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, Appleton, WI is not exceptionally lucrative for these roles compared to the national average.The average salary of $31,540 is below the national average, although the cost of living is also at the national average, making the effective purchasing power comparable.
Is Appleton, WI a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in Appleton, WI is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Appleton, WI?
Some top paying nearby cities include Oshkosh-Neenah, WI ($31,610) and Green Bay, WI.
How does Appleton's Food Preparation salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Appleton, WI is $31,540, which is lower than the national average of $35,960.
What is the Cost of Living in Appleton, WI?
Appleton, WI has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average, indicating that expenses for goods and services are comparable to the rest of the country.
How concentrated are Food Preparation jobs in Appleton compared to the nation?
The concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations jobs in Appleton, WI, is indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.94, meaning it is very close to the national average concentration.
What is the total workforce size for Food Preparation roles in Appleton?
There are approximately 10,320 individuals employed in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations within Appleton, WI.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 10,320 employees in the Appleton, WI area with a job density of 83.275 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Appleton, WI