Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Tennessee
In Tennessee, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $31,430. This figure is notably below the national average of $35,960, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as labor supply and demand, may influence compensation within the state. The specific economic conditions and industry concentration in Tennessee play a significant role in shaping these pay scales.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $31,430 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 36.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,640.
- Outlook: Tennessee boasts a substantial workforce of 301,410 individuals employed in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations, with 92.05 jobs per 1,000 workers. The Location Quotient of 1.04 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these roles in Tennessee compared to the national average, suggesting a stable and potentially growing demand for these services within the state's economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Tennessee earns-12.6%below the national average.
$15.1
$604
$2,619
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Tennessee's Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations salary trends over the past four years is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries within this sector have experienced modest growth, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increased demand for services, and evolving minimum wage laws likely contribute to a gradual upward trajectory in average earnings.
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Tennessee
Salary progression within Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Tennessee typically scales with experience and responsibility. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory roles command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear career advancement opportunities, rewarding dedication and skill development.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $20,120 | $9.7 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $23,573 | $11.3 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $29,290 | $14.1 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $39,288 | $18.9 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $45,640 | $21.9 |
Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$31,430
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$34,768
Adjusted for COL (90.4)
The average annual salary of $31,430 in Tennessee for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations is positioned against a Cost of Living Index of 90.4, which is below the national average of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the reduced cost of living can potentially offset this difference, allowing for a comparable or even improved purchasing power for residents.
Job Market Context
301,410
Total Jobs
92.05
Per 1K Jobs
1.04
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.04, Tennessee 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 1.04, Tennessee exhibits a job market for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations that is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for these roles, indicating that the market is neither oversaturated nor critically undersupplied, presenting a balanced environment for job seekers and employers alike.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations
Comparing salaries near Tennessee
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Tennessee is $31,430. This typically ranges from $20,120 for entry-level positions to $45,640 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Tennessee is 12.6% lower than the national median of $35,960.
Is Tennessee a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?
No, not when compared to the national average salary.While Tennessee offers a lower cost of living, the average annual salary of $31,430 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations is below the national average of $35,960.
Is Tennessee a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?
With a Cost of Living Index of 90.4 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Tennessee?
Some top paying nearby cities include Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN ($33,750) and Clarksville, TN-KY.
How does Tennessee's cost of living compare to the national average?
Tennessee's Cost of Living Index is 90.4, which is 9.6% lower than the national average of 100, making everyday expenses more affordable.
What is the concentration of Food Preparation jobs in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a Location Quotient of 1.04 for these occupations, indicating a slightly higher concentration of jobs compared to the national average.
How many Food Preparation jobs are there per 1,000 workers in Tennessee?
There are approximately 92.05 jobs per 1,000 workers in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Tennessee.
Does experience significantly impact salary in this field in Tennessee?
Yes, experience is a key factor in salary progression, with entry-level positions earning less than senior or supervisory roles, reflecting a clear career ladder.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 301,410 employees in the Tennessee area with a job density of 92.05 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 Tennessee