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Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area

In the Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $31,830. This figure is notably below the national average of $35,960, a difference likely influenced by the unique economic landscape and demand dynamics inherent to nonmetropolitan regions.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $31,830 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.9% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,260.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 4,920 individuals in this sector, and a Location Quotient of 1.43, the job market in Southwest Montana for food preparation and serving roles indicates a significant concentration relative to the national average. This suggests a robust demand and a potentially stable employment environment for these occupations within the region.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$31,830

The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area earns-11.5%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$15.3

Weekly

$612

Monthly

$2,653

Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area

Career progression within 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 or supervisory responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries, with percentile gaps reflecting these advancements in experience and expertise.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills.10% (Entry)$21,480$10.3
Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section.25% (Junior)$23,873$11.5
Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory.50% (Median)$29,350$14.1
Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management.75% (Senior)$39,788$19.1
Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations.90% (Expert)$45,260$21.8

Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$31,830

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$31,830

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $31,830 in Southwest Montana aligns perfectly 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 that income is equivalent to the national standard, suggesting that the cost of essential goods and services is balanced.

Job Market Context

4,920

Total Jobs

126.641

Per 1K Jobs

1.43

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.43, Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.

The Location Quotient of 1.43 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Southwest Montana signifies a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This indicates that the region has a proportionally larger workforce dedicated to these roles, potentially leading to a more competitive job market for new entrants but also suggesting a strong industry presence.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations

Comparing salaries near Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area

Hiring Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area?

The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is $31,830. This typically ranges from $21,480 for entry-level positions to $45,260 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is 11.5% lower than the national median of $35,960.

Is Southwest Montana 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 $31,830 is below the national average, although the cost of living is on par. The high concentration (LQ 1.43) suggests demand, but not necessarily higher pay.

Is Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?

The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area?

Some top paying nearby cities include Great Falls, MT ($31,240) and Helena, MT.

How does the local workforce size impact job availability?

A local workforce of 4,920 in this sector suggests a substantial presence, indicating a consistent need for these roles, though competition may also be present.

What does a Location Quotient of 1.43 mean for job seekers?

A Location Quotient of 1.43 means that these jobs are 43% more concentrated in Southwest Montana than the national average, implying a stronger regional industry presence.

How does the Cost of Living Index of 100 affect the salary perception?

An index of 100 means the cost of living is exactly average nationally. Therefore, the $31,830 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary, despite being lower in nominal terms.

Are there significant salary differences based on experience in this region?

While not explicitly detailed, career progression typically leads to higher salaries, with experienced individuals earning more than entry-level workers in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 4,920 employees in the Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 126.641 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.