Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Food Preparation Workers in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $23,160. This figure falls significantly below the national average of $33,810, reflecting the economic landscape and potentially lower demand for specialized roles in nonmetropolitan regions. The specific economic drivers and industry concentration within this area directly influence the compensation offered to these essential workers.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $23,160 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 7.8% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $29,830.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,250 Food Preparation Workers, the job market in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area shows a moderate presence. The Location Quotient of 1.26 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, demand within the region. The number of jobs per 1,000 workers (7.281) further supports the notion of a consistent need for these positions.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-31.5%below the national average.
$11.1
$445
$1,930
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this precise region and role isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving labor market dynamics typically contribute to incremental increases in compensation for Food Preparation Workers, even in nonmetropolitan areas, though the pace may differ from urban centers.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Salary progression for Food Preparation Workers is typically tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized culinary skills or supervisory experience can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings within this role signify clear career progression pathways, rewarding dedication and acquired expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $17,820 | $8.6 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $17,370 | $8.4 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $21,770 | $10.5 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $28,950 | $13.9 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $29,830 | $14.3 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$23,160
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$23,160
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $23,160 in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area is directly comparable to the national Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the take-home pay is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary locally is effectively on par with the national average, suggesting that the lower nominal wage is somewhat offset by local living expenses.
Job Market Context
1,250
Total Jobs
7.281
Per 1K Jobs
1.26
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.26, South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Food Preparation Workers roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.26 for Food Preparation Workers in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area signifies a job market with a slightly higher concentration of these roles than the national average. This suggests that while the jobs are present and perhaps slightly more abundant relative to the general workforce, the market is not oversaturated, indicating a steady, consistent demand rather than intense competition.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Food Preparation Workers Salary | $27,650↑ 19% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Food Preparation Workers Salary | $25,330↑ 9% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $28,500↑ 23% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Food Preparation Workers Salary | $32,020↑ 38% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $23,160. This typically ranges from $17,820 for entry-level positions to $29,830 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 31.5% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, it is not considered a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workers.The average salary of $23,160 is significantly lower than the national average, indicating less lucrative compensation. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the lower salary's purchasing power is maintained locally.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($27,650) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
Food Preparation Workers in South Central Kentucky's nonmetropolitan area earn approximately $10,650 less annually than the national average, with a local average of $23,160 compared to the national $33,810.
What is the concentration of Food Preparation Workers in this area?
The area has a Location Quotient of 1.26, indicating that Food Preparation Workers are 26% more concentrated here than the national average, suggesting a slightly higher prevalence of these jobs.
Does the cost of living affect the perceived salary?
The local Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the lower nominal salary of $23,160 has a purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being lower in absolute terms.
What is the total workforce size for this role locally?
There are approximately 1,250 Food Preparation Workers employed in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,250 employees in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 7.281 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 South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area