Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area
Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington's nonmetropolitan areas earn an average annual salary of $38,500, notably exceeding the national average of $33,810. This elevated compensation is often driven by regional labor market dynamics and a potentially higher demand for these essential roles in areas with a more concentrated workforce.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,500 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 26.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,350.
- Outlook: The Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area supports a robust workforce of 760 Food Preparation Workers, with a location quotient of 1.21 indicating a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a stable and potentially growing demand for culinary professionals in the region, reflecting a healthy job market for this occupation.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area earns+13.9%above the national average.
$18.5
$740
$3,208
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increased demand for food services, and evolving labor market conditions likely contribute to a positive salary trajectory for these professionals.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Food Preparation Workers typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior or specialized roles command higher compensation. The percentile gaps in salary distribution signify clear opportunities for advancement and increased earning potential as one gains expertise and takes on more responsibility.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $33,860 | $16.3 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $28,875 | $13.9 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $37,330 | $17.9 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $48,125 | $23.1 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $45,350 | $21.8 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,500
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,500
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $38,500 in Eastern Washington's nonmetropolitan areas aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that the nominal salary translates directly to purchasing power equivalent to the national standard, making it an attractive proposition for those considering relocation.
Job Market Context
760
Total Jobs
6.959
Per 1K Jobs
1.21
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.21, Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation Workers roles compared to the national norm.
With a location quotient of 1.21, Eastern Washington's nonmetropolitan area demonstrates a 21% higher concentration of Food Preparation Workers than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant job market, where employers may actively seek skilled individuals, and a solid pool of talent exists to fill these roles.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $42,840↑ 11% | 42 mi |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $38,580↑ 0% | 54 mi |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $40,390↑ 5% | 58 mi |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $40,360↑ 5% | 70 mi |
| Yakima, WA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $38,220↓ 1% | 71 mi |
Comparing salaries near Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area is $38,500. This typically ranges from $33,860 for entry-level positions to $45,350 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area is 13.9% higher than the national median of $33,810.
Is Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
Yes, it offers above-average compensation.Food Preparation Workers in this region earn approximately $4,690 more annually than the national average. Coupled with a cost of living that matches the national average, this makes the area financially advantageous for these roles.
Is Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($42,840) and Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA.
How does the number of Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington compare nationally?
Eastern Washington's nonmetropolitan area has 6.959 Food Preparation Workers per 1,000 workers, indicating a significant presence of this occupation relative to the national landscape.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Food Preparation Workers in Eastern Washington?
An LQ of 1.21 signifies that Food Preparation Workers are 21% more concentrated in Eastern Washington's nonmetropolitan areas than the national average, suggesting higher regional demand or a specialized industry presence.
Does experience impact salary for Food Preparation Workers in this region?
Yes, like most professions, experience is a key factor in salary progression. Entry-level positions will likely offer lower pay, while seasoned professionals can command significantly higher earnings.
How does the cost of living affect the $38,500 salary in Eastern Washington?
With a cost of living index of 100, the $38,500 salary holds the same purchasing power as the national average salary of $33,810 would in a national average cost of living area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 760 employees in the Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 6.959 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 Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area