Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Memphis, TN-MS-AR
Food Preparation Workers in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR metropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $29,270. This figure is notably below the national average of $33,810, indicating a localized pay structure influenced by regional economic factors and labor market dynamics. The specific economic conditions and demand within Memphis contribute to this salary differential.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $29,270 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 37.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $37,810.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 3,420 Food Preparation Workers, the Memphis area demonstrates a substantial presence in this sector. The location quotient of 0.96 suggests that the concentration of these roles is nearly on par with the national average, implying a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, demand for these positions within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Memphis, TN-MS-AR earns-13.4%below the national average.
$14.1
$563
$2,439
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Food Preparation Workers in Memphis is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries in this field have experienced modest growth over the past four years, mirroring broader economic trends. Inflationary pressures and evolving labor demands typically drive incremental increases in compensation for roles across various industries, including food preparation.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Memphis, TN-MS-AR
The salary range for Food Preparation Workers in Memphis typically widens with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior or specialized roles can command higher compensation. The percentile gaps in earnings signify clear career progression pathways, rewarding increased skill, responsibility, and tenure within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $21,740 | $10.5 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $21,953 | $10.6 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $27,430 | $13.2 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $36,588 | $17.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $37,810 | $18.2 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$29,270
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$29,270
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $29,270 for Food Preparation Workers in Memphis aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary within Memphis is equivalent to the national average, suggesting a balanced economic environment for these workers.
Job Market Context
3,420
Total Jobs
5.519
Per 1K Jobs
0.96
Location Quotient
Memphis, TN-MS-AR has 0.96x 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 0.96 indicates that Food Preparation Workers are employed in Memphis at a rate very close to the national average. This suggests a competitive but balanced job market, where the supply and demand for these roles are relatively aligned with national trends, without significant over- or under-representation.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Jonesboro, AR Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,070↑ 3% | 64 mi |
| Jackson, TN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,610↓ 6% | 74 mi |
Comparing salaries near Memphis, TN-MS-AR
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $29,270. This typically ranges from $21,740 for entry-level positions to $37,810 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 13.4% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, but the cost of living is average.The average salary of $29,270 is below the national average, but the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning purchasing power is comparable.
Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Memphis, TN-MS-AR?
Some top paying nearby cities include Jonesboro, AR ($30,070) and Jackson, TN.
How does experience affect a Food Preparation Worker's salary in Memphis?
Experience significantly impacts earnings. Entry-level positions offer lower pay, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and longer tenures can expect substantially higher salaries, reflecting increased value and responsibility.
What is the job outlook for Food Preparation Workers in Memphis?
The job outlook is stable, with a location quotient near the national average, indicating consistent demand for these roles within the local workforce of 3,420.
How does Memphis's cost of living compare to other cities for Food Preparation Workers?
Memphis's cost of living is exactly at the national average (100), meaning that the $29,270 salary has average purchasing power when compared nationally.
Are there many Food Preparation Worker jobs in Memphis compared to the national average?
Yes, the number of jobs per 1,000 workers is 5.519, which is very close to the national average, indicating a comparable level of job availability.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 3,420 employees in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area with a job density of 5.519 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 Memphis, TN-MS-AR