Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Altoona, PA
Food Preparation Workers in Altoona, PA, earn an average annual salary of $29,360. This figure is notably below the national average of $33,810, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a lower cost of doing business influence compensation in this region. The specific economic landscape of Altoona shapes the earning potential for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $29,360 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $35,800.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 300 individuals in food preparation roles, Altoona presents a modest but stable employment environment. The Location Quotient of 0.89 indicates a slightly lower concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting that while the demand exists, it is not disproportionately high, implying a balanced job market for aspiring or current food preparation workers.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Altoona, PA earns-13.2%below the national average.
$14.1
$565
$2,447
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Altoona's food preparation sector isn't detailed here, it's reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery and evolving consumer demands likely contribute to incremental increases in wages, aiming to keep pace with inflation and attract talent to the field.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA
Salary progression for Food Preparation Workers typically scales with experience and acquired skills. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized knowledge or supervisory responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in pay reflect this career trajectory, rewarding dedication and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $20,890 | $10 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $22,020 | $10.6 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $28,520 | $13.7 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $36,700 | $17.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $35,800 | $17.2 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$29,360
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$29,360
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $29,360 in Altoona, PA, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal income is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that income locally is equivalent to the national standard, offering a stable financial baseline for residents.
Job Market Context
300
Total Jobs
5.131
Per 1K Jobs
0.89
Location Quotient
Altoona, PA has 0.89x the national average concentration of Food Preparation Workers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
Altoona's Location Quotient of 0.89 for Food Preparation Workers suggests a job market that is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This indicates that while the profession is present and necessary, it doesn't dominate the local employment landscape, potentially leading to a competitive environment for job seekers but also opportunities for those with relevant skills.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Johnstown, PA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,160↓ 7% | 30 mi |
| State College, PA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $31,250↑ 6% | 35 mi |
| Chambersburg, PA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,640↑ 4% | 56 mi |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV Food Preparation Workers Salary | $32,990↑ 12% | 70 mi |
| Gettysburg, PA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $31,700↑ 8% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Altoona, PA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Altoona, PA is $29,360. This typically ranges from $20,890 for entry-level positions to $35,800 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 13.2% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Altoona, PA a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, but financially stable.The average salary of $29,360 is below the national average, but the local cost of living is also at the national average, meaning your earnings have standard purchasing power.
Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($27,160) and State College, PA.
How does experience affect a Food Preparation Worker's salary in Altoona?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases for Food Preparation Workers. Entry-level roles typically offer lower pay, while those with several years of experience, specialized skills, or supervisory duties can expect to earn considerably more, reflecting their value to employers.
What is the job outlook for Food Preparation Workers in Altoona?
The job outlook appears stable, with a local workforce of 300 and a concentration slightly below the national average. This suggests consistent demand for these roles within the community.
How does Altoona's cost of living compare to the national average?
Altoona's cost of living is exactly at the national average, indicated by an index of 100. This means that the expenses for goods and services in Altoona are comparable to the typical U.S. city.
Is the salary for Food Preparation Workers in Altoona competitive?
While the nominal salary is below the national average, its value is maintained by the local cost of living being at the national average. Competitiveness depends on individual skill sets and the specific employer's pay scales.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 300 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 5.131 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 Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Altoona, PA