Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL
In Auburn-Opelika, AL, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $27,960. This figure is notably lower than the national average of $35,960, suggesting that local economic factors and market demand specific to the Auburn-Opelika region influence compensation levels for these roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $27,960 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $37,530.
- Outlook: The Auburn-Opelika area supports a substantial workforce of 8,630 individuals within Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations. With a Location Quotient of 1.36, this sector is more concentrated here than the national average, indicating a robust local demand and a significant presence of these jobs within the regional economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Auburn-Opelika, AL earns-22.2%below the national average.
$13.4
$538
$2,330
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this localized sector is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations have seen incremental growth over the past four years, mirroring broader economic trends and inflation adjustments. This suggests a steady, albeit potentially modest, upward trajectory for earnings in this field within the Auburn-Opelika region.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Auburn-Opelika, AL
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 experienced professionals and those in supervisory or specialized roles can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear opportunities for advancement and increased compensation as one gains experience and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $17,930 | $8.6 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $20,970 | $10.1 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $26,540 | $12.8 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $34,950 | $16.8 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $37,530 | $18 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$27,960
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$27,960
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $27,960 in Auburn-Opelika, AL, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that while the nominal salary is below the national average, the purchasing power of that income locally is on par with the rest of the country, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents.
Job Market Context
8,630
Total Jobs
120.342
Per 1K Jobs
1.36
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.36, Auburn-Opelika, AL has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.36 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Auburn-Opelika signifies a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests that the job market in this area is relatively abundant with opportunities in this sector, potentially leading to increased competition among job seekers but also indicating a strong demand from local employers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $27,960. This typically ranges from $17,930 for entry-level positions to $37,530 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 22.2% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, not compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $27,960 is significantly lower than the national average of $35,960. The sector is concentrated, but this doesn't translate to higher pay relative to the nation.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Auburn-Opelika, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Columbus, GA-AL ($27,290) and Montgomery, AL.
How does the local salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $27,960, which is $8,000 less than the national average of $35,960.
What is the concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations jobs in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The Location Quotient is 1.36, indicating that these jobs are 36% more concentrated in Auburn-Opelika, AL than the national average.
How does the cost of living affect the salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The Cost of Living Index is 100, meaning it is exactly at the national average. Therefore, the lower nominal salary of $27,960 has the same purchasing power locally as the national average salary would have nationally.
What is the total number of workers in this field in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
There are 8,630 individuals employed in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 8,630 employees in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area with a job density of 120.342 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 Auburn-Opelika, AL