Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN
In Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN, Food Preparation Workers can expect an average annual salary of $32,020. This figure is slightly below the national average of $33,810, a common occurrence in regional markets where local economic factors and demand influence compensation. The specific pay rates in this area are shaped by the interplay of local industry needs and the overall economic landscape of the tri-state region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,020 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $39,510.
- Outlook: Cincinnati's food preparation sector supports a substantial local workforce of 5,250 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.83, the concentration of these roles is slightly below the national average, suggesting a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other occupations. The presence of nearly 5 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent need for these services within the local economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN earns-5.3%below the national average.
$15.4
$616
$2,668
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this role in Cincinnati isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic growth, inflation, and evolving labor market dynamics typically contribute to incremental salary increases for most positions, including those in food preparation.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN
Career progression for Food Preparation Workers typically involves moving from entry-level roles to more senior or specialized positions. As experience and skill levels increase, so does earning potential, with significant salary gaps often observed between the 25th percentile (entry-level) and the 75th percentile (experienced or supervisory roles). These percentile differences highlight the tangible rewards of career advancement within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $23,570 | $11.3 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $24,015 | $11.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $31,300 | $15 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $40,025 | $19.2 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $39,510 | $19 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,020
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,020
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $32,020 in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati is comparable to the national average, offering a stable financial standing relative to everyday expenses.
Job Market Context
5,250
Total Jobs
4.809
Per 1K Jobs
0.83
Location Quotient
Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN has 0.83x 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.
A Location Quotient of 0.83 indicates that Food Preparation Worker roles are present in Cincinnati at a rate slightly lower than the national average. This suggests that while the job market is active and provides opportunities, it may not be as saturated or intensely competitive as areas with a higher concentration of these specific jobs.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH Food Preparation Workers Salary | $32,930↑ 3% | 50 mi |
| Springfield, OH Food Preparation Workers Salary | $31,120↓ 3% | 69 mi |
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,650↓ 14% | 73 mi |
| Columbus, IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,750↓ 4% | 76 mi |
| Muncie, IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $28,730↓ 10% | 89 mi |
Comparing salaries near Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN is $32,020. This typically ranges from $23,570 for entry-level positions to $39,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN is 5.3% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $32,020 is below the national average, although the cost of living is on par, meaning purchasing power is similar.
Is Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN?
Some top paying nearby cities include Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH ($32,930) and Springfield, OH.
How does experience affect pay for Food Preparation Workers in Cincinnati?
Experience significantly impacts earnings, with senior roles commanding higher salaries than entry-level positions, reflected in the percentile wage gaps.
What is the job market like for Food Preparation Workers in Cincinnati?
The market is stable with a consistent need for these workers, though the concentration is slightly below the national average.
Does the cost of living in Cincinnati impact the salary?
The cost of living in Cincinnati is at the national average, meaning the $32,020 salary offers a comparable standard of living to the national average.
How does Cincinnati's Food Preparation Worker concentration compare nationally?
Cincinnati's concentration (Location Quotient of 0.83) is slightly lower than the national average, indicating a moderately present but not dominant job market for this role.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,250 employees in the Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN area with a job density of 4.809 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 Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN