In the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA metropolitan area, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $31,980. This figure is slightly below the national average of $35,960, suggesting that local market dynamics and the specific economic landscape of Georgia influence compensation for these roles. The cost of living in Atlanta is right at the national average, making this salary's purchasing power comparable to other major U.S. cities.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $31,980 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 32.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,940.
- Outlook: The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA area boasts a substantial workforce of 257,480 individuals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations. With a Location Quotient of 1.02, the concentration of these jobs in the region is just slightly above the national average, indicating a stable and consistent demand for these services. This robust presence suggests a healthy job market with ongoing opportunities for those entering or advancing within this sector.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA earns-11.1%below the national average.
$15.4
$615
$2,665
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries within Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations have seen a modest upward trend over the past four years, mirroring broader economic growth and inflation. This gradual increase is typical across many industries as businesses adapt to changing labor costs and market demands, ensuring that compensation remains competitive within the local economy.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA
Career progression in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations typically leads to increased earning potential. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and supervisory experience can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in pay clearly signify opportunities for advancement, rewarding dedication, skill development, and leadership within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $18,550 | $8.9 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $23,985 | $11.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $29,930 | $14.4 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $39,975 | $19.2 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $44,940 | $21.6 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$31,980
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$31,980
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $31,980 and a Cost of Living Index of 100, the nominal income in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA, translates directly to the national average purchasing power. This means that while the salary is below the national average, the cost of essential goods and services is also at the national average, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents in this sector.
Job Market Context
257,480
Total Jobs
89.652
Per 1K Jobs
1.02
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.02, Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.02 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA, indicates that the concentration of these jobs is very close to the national average. This suggests a balanced job market where demand and supply are relatively aligned, meaning the market is neither overly saturated nor experiencing a significant shortage of workers. Professionals can expect a competitive but accessible job landscape.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Gainesville, GA Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $30,240↓ 5% | 49 mi |
| Rome, GA Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $28,570↓ 11% | 58 mi |
| Athens-Clarke County, GA Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $28,550↓ 11% | 60 mi |
| South Georgia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $27,450↓ 14% | 65 mi |
| North Georgia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $27,990↓ 12% | 65 mi |
Comparing salaries near Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA
Hiring Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA is $31,980. This typically ranges from $18,550 for entry-level positions to $44,940 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA is 11.1% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.The average salary of $31,980 is slightly below the national average, and the cost of living is exactly at the national average, indicating average earning potential.
Is Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Gainesville, GA ($30,240) and Rome, GA.
How does experience impact salary in Atlanta's food service industry?
Experience is a key driver of salary growth. Entry-level roles typically offer lower pay, while senior positions, management roles, and specialized culinary skills command higher compensation, reflecting increased responsibility and expertise.
What is the total number of people employed in food preparation in Atlanta?
The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA metropolitan area employs a substantial 257,480 individuals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations.
How does Atlanta's job market compare to the national average for food preparation roles?
Atlanta's job market for these roles is very similar to the national average, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.02, suggesting a balanced level of job concentration.
What does a Cost of Living Index of 100 mean for food service workers in Atlanta?
A Cost of Living Index of 100 means that the general cost of goods and services in Atlanta is the same as the national average, so the $31,980 salary has average purchasing power.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 257,480 employees in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA area with a job density of 89.652 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 Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA