Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Chattanooga, TN-GA
In Chattanooga, TN-GA, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $30,260. This figure is notably below the national average of $35,960, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as a higher concentration of available workers or specific industry demands, may influence compensation levels in this region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $30,260 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 36.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,460.
- Outlook: The Chattanooga, TN-GA area supports a substantial workforce of 25,970 individuals within Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations. With a Location Quotient of 1.09, this sector shows a concentration slightly above the national average, indicating a robust and established presence of these roles within the local economy, suggesting consistent demand.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA earns-15.9%below the national average.
$14.6
$582
$2,522
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring broader economic trends and potential increases in minimum wage or industry-specific adjustments. This suggests a slowly appreciating earning potential for those in the field.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Chattanooga, TN-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 pay scale, while experienced chefs, managers, and specialized roles command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in salary distribution highlight clear opportunities for advancement and increased compensation with acquired skills and experience.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $18,450 | $8.9 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $22,695 | $10.9 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $28,500 | $13.7 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $37,825 | $18.2 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $44,460 | $21.4 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$30,260
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$30,260
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $30,260 in Chattanooga, TN-GA 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 this income is comparable to the national standard, making the effective financial standing relatively stable for residents.
Job Market Context
25,970
Total Jobs
96.434
Per 1K Jobs
1.09
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.09, Chattanooga, TN-GA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.09, Chattanooga, TN-GA demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations compared to the national average. This indicates a healthy, perhaps slightly more competitive, job market where these roles are well-represented and in steady demand, offering ample opportunities for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland, TN Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $28,580↓ 6% | 23 mi |
| Dalton, GA Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $27,760↓ 8% | 26 mi |
| Rome, GA Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $28,570↓ 6% | 55 mi |
| Huntsville, AL Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $29,750↓ 2% | 83 mi |
| Gadsden, AL Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $25,720↓ 15% | 85 mi |
Comparing salaries near Chattanooga, TN-GA
Hiring Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Chattanooga, TN-GA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA is $30,260. This typically ranges from $18,450 for entry-level positions to $44,460 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Chattanooga, TN-GA is 15.9% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is Chattanooga, TN-GA a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.While the cost of living is on par with the national average, the average salary for these roles is below the national benchmark. The slightly higher concentration of jobs suggests a stable market, but not necessarily one offering premium compensation.
Is Chattanooga, TN-GA a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in Chattanooga, TN-GA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Chattanooga, TN-GA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Cleveland, TN ($28,580) and Dalton, GA.
How does the local workforce size impact job availability?
A local workforce of 25,970 indicates a substantial pool of talent and a significant presence of these occupations, suggesting a dynamic job market with ongoing opportunities.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.09 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient of 1.09 signifies that Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations are slightly more concentrated in Chattanooga, TN-GA than the national average, implying a strong local industry presence and potentially more job openings relative to other professions.
How does Chattanooga's Cost of Living compare nationally?
Chattanooga's Cost of Living Index is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the general expenses for housing, food, and transportation are comparable to the rest of the United States.
What is the average number of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations jobs per 1,000 workers in Chattanooga?
There are approximately 96.434 jobs per 1,000 workers in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Chattanooga, TN-GA, highlighting the prevalence of these roles within the local employment landscape.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 25,970 employees in the Chattanooga, TN-GA area with a job density of 96.434 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 Chattanooga, TN-GA