Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Charlottesville, VA
In Charlottesville, VA, Food Preparation Workers can expect an average annual salary of $34,720. This figure slightly surpasses the national average of $33,810, suggesting a localized demand that slightly outpaces the broader market. Factors such as the specific economic landscape and the concentration of food service establishments within Charlottesville contribute to this competitive compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $34,720 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 31.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $42,880.
- Outlook: Charlottesville, VA, supports a local workforce of 490 Food Preparation Workers. While the Location Quotient of 0.76 indicates a slightly lower concentration compared to the national average, the presence of 4.363 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a stable, albeit not exceptionally high, demand for these roles within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville, VA earns+2.7%above the national average.
$16.7
$668
$2,893
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville is not provided, it's reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic growth and inflation typically drive wage increases across most sectors, including food preparation, ensuring that compensation remains competitive.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Charlottesville, VA
Career progression for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville, VA, typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior roles, often accompanied by salary increases. While specific percentile data isn't available, the typical salary distribution suggests that experienced professionals can command higher earnings, reflecting acquired skills and responsibilities. Advancement opportunities are key to maximizing earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $27,620 | $13.3 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $26,040 | $12.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $33,760 | $16.2 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $43,400 | $20.9 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $42,880 | $20.6 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$34,720
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$34,720
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $34,720 in Charlottesville, VA, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Food Preparation Worker's salary in Charlottesville is equivalent to that of their national counterparts, offering stability for those considering a move to the area.
Job Market Context
490
Total Jobs
4.363
Per 1K Jobs
0.76
Location Quotient
Charlottesville, VA has 0.76x 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.
With a Location Quotient of 0.76, the job market for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville, VA, is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while opportunities exist, the field may not be as saturated as in other regions, potentially offering a balanced competitive landscape for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southside Virginia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,690↓ 12% | 25 mi |
| Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,060↓ 22% | 25 mi |
| Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,090↓ 13% | 25 mi |
| Northwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,900↓ 11% | 25 mi |
| Southern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $26,760↓ 23% | 25 mi |
Comparing salaries near Charlottesville, VA
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Charlottesville, VA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville, VA is $34,720. This typically ranges from $27,620 for entry-level positions to $42,880 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Charlottesville, VA is 2.7% higher than the national median of $33,810.
Is Charlottesville, VA a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
Yes, Charlottesville, VA offers a competitive salary for Food Preparation Workers.The average salary of $34,720 slightly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is exactly at the national benchmark, providing good value for earnings.
Is Charlottesville, VA a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Charlottesville, VA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Charlottesville, VA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southside Virginia nonmetropolitan area ($30,690) and Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville, VA, is $34,720, which is slightly higher than the national average of $33,810.
What is the cost of living in Charlottesville, VA?
Charlottesville, VA, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average, indicating that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.
How concentrated is the job market for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville?
The Location Quotient for Food Preparation Workers in Charlottesville is 0.76, meaning the concentration of these jobs is slightly lower than the national average.
What is the total workforce size for this role in Charlottesville?
There are approximately 490 Food Preparation Workers employed in Charlottesville, VA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 490 employees in the Charlottesville, VA area with a job density of 4.363 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 Charlottesville, VA