Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in State College, PA
In State College, PA, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $32,540. This figure is slightly below the national average of $35,960, a common occurrence in areas where the cost of living remains stable. Local economic factors and the specific demand within the State College area contribute to this compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,540 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $46,040.
- Outlook: The job market for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in State College, PA, appears robust, with a substantial local workforce of 6,780 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.12 indicates a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand and a well-established presence of this sector within the local economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in State College, PA earns-9.5%below the national average.
$15.6
$626
$2,712
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for State College is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for services, and a rising minimum wage, ensuring that compensation keeps pace with the cost of living and labor market dynamics.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in State College, PA
Within the Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations field, salary progression is closely tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory roles can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential as one gains experience.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $20,740 | $10 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $24,405 | $11.7 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $29,260 | $14.1 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $40,675 | $19.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $46,040 | $22.1 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,540
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,540
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $32,540 in State College, PA, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in State College is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment for residents without the added pressure of higher living expenses.
Job Market Context
6,780
Total Jobs
98.569
Per 1K Jobs
1.12
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.12, State College, PA 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 1.12, State College, PA, demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations jobs than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet accessible job market, where opportunities are relatively abundant, and employers may actively seek qualified candidates to fill available positions.
Nearby Job Markets
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Comparing salaries near State College, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in State College, PA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in State College, PA is $32,540. This typically ranges from $20,740 for entry-level positions to $46,040 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in State College, PA is 9.5% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is State College, PA a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, but it offers stable purchasing power.While the average salary of $32,540 is below the national average, the cost of living in State College is also at the national average, meaning your earnings hold comparable purchasing power.
Is State College, PA a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in State College, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near State College, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Altoona, PA ($29,220) and Northwestern Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area.
How does the State College salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in State College, PA is $32,540, which is approximately $3,420 less than the national average of $35,960.
What is the concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations jobs in State College?
State College has a Location Quotient of 1.12 for these roles, indicating a slightly higher concentration of jobs compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in State College affect salary perception?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, State College matches the national average, meaning the $32,540 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
What does the total local workforce size suggest about job availability?
A total local workforce of 6,780 in this sector suggests a significant presence and ongoing demand for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in State College.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 6,780 employees in the State College, PA area with a job density of 98.569 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 State College, PA