In the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations earn an average annual salary of $32,600. This figure is slightly below the national average of $35,960, a difference often attributed to regional economic factors and the specific demands of the local market. The cost of living in this area aligns perfectly with the national average, suggesting that while nominal wages are lower, purchasing power remains comparable.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,600 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 33.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,520.
- Outlook: The food preparation and serving sector in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is substantial, employing 14,360 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 1.06, this sector is slightly more concentrated here than the national average, indicating a stable and perhaps growing demand for these roles within the local economy. The presence of 93.365 jobs per 1,000 workers underscores the sector's importance to the region's employment landscape.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area earns-9.3%below the national average.
$15.7
$627
$2,717
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving labor market dynamics typically contribute to modest annual increases in compensation for these roles, aiming to keep pace with the cost of living and attract sufficient talent.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area
Within the Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations field, salary progression is typically tied to experience and responsibility. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while those with several years of experience, specialized skills, or supervisory duties can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify career progression opportunities, rewarding dedication and skill development within the industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $24,960 | $12 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $24,450 | $11.8 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $29,920 | $14.4 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $40,750 | $19.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $44,520 | $21.4 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,600
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,600
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $32,600 in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is directly comparable to the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that, on average, the nominal income earned by food preparation and serving professionals in this region holds equivalent purchasing power to the national average. While the absolute salary may seem lower, the stable cost of living suggests that the financial experience for residents is relatively standard.
Job Market Context
14,360
Total Jobs
93.365
Per 1K Jobs
1.06
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.06, South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.06 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area indicates a slightly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests that the job market here is robust and potentially more competitive for employers seeking talent, or conversely, offers more opportunities for job seekers relative to other professions within the region. The abundance of roles, represented by 93.365 jobs per 1,000 workers, points to a healthy demand.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Island, NE Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $33,750↑ 4% | 15 mi |
| Lincoln, NE Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary | $34,230↑ 5% | 86 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is $32,600. This typically ranges from $24,960 for entry-level positions to $44,520 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is 9.3% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $32,600 is below the national average, although the cost of living is on par. The slightly higher concentration of jobs suggests steady demand rather than exceptionally high compensation.
Is South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Grand Island, NE ($33,750) and Lincoln, NE.
How does the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area's average salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area is $32,600, which is approximately $3,360 less than the national average of $35,960.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) in this region?
An LQ of 1.06 signifies that Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations are 6% more concentrated in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area than the national average, indicating a slightly stronger presence of these jobs in the local economy.
Does the cost of living affect the perceived value of the salary?
No, the cost of living index is exactly 100, matching the national average. This means the $32,600 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being nominally lower.
How many people work in food preparation and serving in this area?
There are 14,360 individuals employed in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations within the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 14,360 employees in the South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 93.365 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 South Nebraska nonmetropolitan area