Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Food Preparation Workers in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $24,060. This figure is notably below the national average of $33,810, reflecting regional economic factors and potentially a different cost structure for employers in this locale. The specific economic landscape and demand within this nonmetropolitan region significantly influence compensation levels for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $24,060 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $32,120.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,210 Food Preparation Workers, the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area demonstrates a stable employment base for this occupation. The Location Quotient of 1.21 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting a moderate but consistent demand that supports the existing workforce. This concentration implies that the region relies on these roles to a degree greater than the national average, offering a degree of job security.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-28.8%below the national average.
$11.6
$463
$2,005
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this nonmetropolitan area is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Food Preparation Workers in Central Kentucky have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving labor market dynamics typically contribute to incremental increases in compensation, ensuring that wages keep pace, albeit potentially at a slower rate than in more metropolitan areas.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Salary progression for Food Preparation Workers in Central Kentucky typically correlates with experience and skill development. Entry-level positions will likely fall at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear career progression pathways, rewarding dedication and expertise within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $16,930 | $8.1 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $18,045 | $8.7 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $21,780 | $10.5 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $30,075 | $14.5 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $32,120 | $15.4 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$24,060
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$24,060
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $24,060 in Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area 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 comparable to the national standard. Consumers can expect prices for goods and services to be on par with what they would find elsewhere in the country.
Job Market Context
1,210
Total Jobs
6.981
Per 1K Jobs
1.21
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.21, Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation Workers roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.21 for Food Preparation Workers in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area suggests a job market that is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This indicates a potentially competitive environment for job seekers, as there are relatively more positions available per capita compared to other regions. However, it also signifies a steady demand that supports the local workforce, making it a viable market for those seeking employment in this sector.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,650↑ 15% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Food Preparation Workers Salary | $25,330↑ 5% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $28,500↑ 18% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $32,020↑ 33% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $24,060. This typically ranges from $16,930 for entry-level positions to $32,120 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 28.8% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, it is not considered lucrative compared to national averages.The average salary of $24,060 is significantly lower than the national average of $33,810. While the cost of living is average, the lower nominal wage means less disposable income compared to national standards.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($27,650) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the local workforce size affect job prospects?
A local workforce of 1,210 indicates a substantial number of individuals employed in this role, suggesting a stable job market. However, it also implies a potentially competitive environment for new entrants.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.21 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient above 1.0 signifies a higher concentration of this occupation in the area compared to the national average, indicating a potentially stronger local demand for Food Preparation Workers.
How does the Cost of Living Index impact the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the local prices are average. This means the $24,060 salary, while lower than the national average, offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
Are there opportunities for career advancement for Food Preparation Workers in this region?
While specific advancement data isn't provided, the presence of a defined workforce and a slightly higher concentration suggests that experience and skill development can lead to higher-paying roles within the sector.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,210 employees in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 6.981 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 Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area