Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Pocatello, ID
In Pocatello, ID, Food Preparation Workers can expect an average annual salary of $29,050. This figure is notably below the national average of $33,810, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different cost structure influence compensation in this Idaho city. The specific economic landscape of Pocatello plays a significant role in shaping these wage expectations for the food service industry.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $29,050 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $36,030.
- Outlook: Pocatello's food preparation sector, with a total local workforce of 200 individuals, presents a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, employment environment. The Location Quotient of 0.91 indicates that the concentration of these roles in Pocatello is slightly below the national average, suggesting a market that is neither oversaturated nor experiencing exceptionally high demand relative to other regions. This equilibrium points to a steady job market for dedicated professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Pocatello, ID earns-14.1%below the national average.
$14
$559
$2,421
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Pocatello's Food Preparation Workers is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic factors such as inflation, increased demand for food services, and evolving labor market conditions typically contribute to incremental wage increases for roles in this sector, even in smaller metropolitan areas.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Pocatello, ID
Career progression for Food Preparation Workers in Pocatello, as elsewhere, typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior or specialized roles. While specific salary percentiles are not detailed here, the gap between starting wages and those earned by experienced professionals generally widens with increased responsibility, skill acquisition, and tenure. This salary scaling signifies clear opportunities for career advancement within the food service industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $18,320 | $8.8 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $21,788 | $10.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $28,280 | $13.6 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $36,313 | $17.5 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $36,030 | $17.3 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$29,050
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$29,050
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary for Food Preparation Workers in Pocatello stands at $29,050, which 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 in Pocatello is equivalent to the national average, offering a balanced financial standing for residents.
Job Market Context
200
Total Jobs
5.251
Per 1K Jobs
0.91
Location Quotient
Pocatello, ID has 0.91x 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 0.91, Pocatello's market for Food Preparation Workers is nearly on par with the national average in terms of job concentration. This suggests a competitive yet accessible job market; while not a hotspot for these roles, there are sufficient opportunities available for those seeking employment in this field. The market is neither overly saturated nor exceptionally scarce, indicating a balanced supply and demand dynamic.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Falls, ID Food Preparation Workers Salary | $29,600↑ 2% | 48 mi |
| Logan, UT-ID Food Preparation Workers Salary | $31,680↑ 9% | 84 mi |
Comparing salaries near Pocatello, ID
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Pocatello, ID?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Pocatello, ID is $29,050. This typically ranges from $18,320 for entry-level positions to $36,030 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Pocatello, ID is 14.1% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Pocatello, ID a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $29,050 is below the national average, though the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power comparable.
Is Pocatello, ID a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Pocatello, ID is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Pocatello, ID?
Some top paying nearby cities include Idaho Falls, ID ($29,600) and Logan, UT-ID.
How does Pocatello's job market compare to the national average for Food Preparation Workers?
Pocatello's job market for Food Preparation Workers is slightly less concentrated than the national average, with a Location Quotient of 0.91, indicating a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other regions.
What is the average salary for a Food Preparation Worker in Pocatello, ID?
The average annual salary for a Food Preparation Worker in Pocatello, ID is $29,050.
How does the cost of living in Pocatello affect the salary?
Pocatello's cost of living index is 100, which is the national average. This means the $29,050 salary has a purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being lower than the national average salary.
What does the Location Quotient of 0.91 signify for this role in Pocatello?
A Location Quotient of 0.91 indicates that the concentration of Food Preparation Worker jobs in Pocatello is slightly lower than the national average, suggesting a balanced job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the Pocatello, ID area with a job density of 5.251 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 Pocatello, ID