SalaryNode

Average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Wheeling, WV-OH

In Wheeling, WV-OH, professionals in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $29,610. This figure is notably below the national average of $35,960, suggesting that local economic factors and market demand play a significant role in compensation within this sector in the region.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $29,610 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.3% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $39,760.
  • Outlook: The Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations sector in Wheeling, WV-OH, is supported by a local workforce of 6,180 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 1.19, this indicates a slightly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, demand for these services within the local economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$29,610

The average Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Wheeling, WV-OH earns-17.7%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$14.2

Weekly

$569

Monthly

$2,468

Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary Distribution in Wheeling, WV-OH

Career progression in Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations typically sees a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may hover closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory roles can command salaries well above the average, with percentile gaps clearly signifying advancement opportunities.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills.10% (Entry)$21,740$10.5
Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section.25% (Junior)$22,208$10.7
Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory.50% (Median)$27,160$13.1
Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management.75% (Senior)$37,013$17.8
Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations.90% (Expert)$39,760$19.1

Detailed Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$29,610

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$29,610

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $29,610 in Wheeling, WV-OH, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of this income is equivalent to the national standard, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents.

Job Market Context

6,180

Total Jobs

104.792

Per 1K Jobs

1.19

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.19, Wheeling, WV-OH has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations roles compared to the national norm.

A Location Quotient of 1.19 for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Wheeling, WV-OH, signifies that this industry is slightly more prevalent locally than it is nationwide. This suggests a competitive yet robust market where the demand for these services is consistent, providing ample opportunities for both new entrants and experienced workers.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations make in Wheeling, WV-OH?

The median annual salary for a Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations in Wheeling, WV-OH is $29,610. This typically ranges from $21,740 for entry-level positions to $39,760 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Wheeling, WV-OH is 17.7% lower than the national median of $35,960.

Is Wheeling, WV-OH a lucrative place for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupationss?

No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to national averages.While the cost of living is on par with the national average, the average salary of $29,610 is significantly lower than the national average of $35,960 for these roles.

Is Wheeling, WV-OH a good place to live for Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations?

The Cost of Living Index in Wheeling, WV-OH is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Wheeling, WV-OH?

Some top paying nearby cities include Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH ($30,480) and Pittsburgh, PA.

How does the local workforce size affect job prospects?

A local workforce of 6,180 suggests a substantial pool of potential employees, indicating a stable job market for food preparation roles, though competition may be present.

What does a Location Quotient of 1.19 mean for job seekers?

A Location Quotient above 1.0, like 1.19, indicates that food preparation jobs are more concentrated in Wheeling, WV-OH, than the national average, suggesting a slightly higher demand or availability of these positions.

How does the Cost of Living in Wheeling compare nationally?

Wheeling, WV-OH, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, meaning it is exactly average compared to the rest of the United States.

Can I expect my salary to increase with experience in Wheeling?

Yes, as with most fields, experience in food preparation and serving roles typically leads to higher earning potential, with senior positions commanding significantly more than entry-level wages.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 6,180 employees in the Wheeling, WV-OH area with a job density of 104.792 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.