Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area
In the Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area, Food Preparation Workers earn an average annual salary of $31,190. This figure is slightly below the national average of $33,810, reflecting the unique economic dynamics and labor market conditions prevalent in nonmetropolitan regions. Factors such as local demand, industry concentration, and the overall economic structure of the area contribute to this pay differential.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $31,190 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 30.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $36,510.
- Outlook: The local workforce for Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana comprises approximately 210 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.96, the concentration of these roles is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, demand for these positions. The presence of 5.524 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent need for food preparation services within the region's economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area earns-7.7%below the national average.
$15
$600
$2,599
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this exact role in Southwest Montana is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving labor demands typically drive modest increases in compensation for essential roles like food preparation, ensuring that wages adapt to the changing economic landscape.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area
Within the Food Preparation Worker career path, salary progression is typically tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while those with several years of experience, specialized skills, or supervisory responsibilities can expect to earn significantly more. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries often signifies substantial career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $26,140 | $12.6 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $23,393 | $11.2 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $30,350 | $14.6 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $38,988 | $18.7 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $36,510 | $17.6 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$31,190
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$31,190
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $31,190 for Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is slightly lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that income is effectively equivalent to the national standard, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents.
Job Market Context
210
Total Jobs
5.524
Per 1K Jobs
0.96
Location Quotient
Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area 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 the concentration of Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana is very close to the national average. This suggests that the job market for these roles is neither exceptionally saturated nor unusually scarce. The demand is steady and reflects the general needs of the region's population and economy, making it a predictable employment landscape.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Great Falls, MT Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,450↓ 2% | 56 mi |
| Helena, MT Food Preparation Workers Salary | $31,690↑ 2% | 77 mi |
| Bozeman, MT Food Preparation Workers Salary | $35,800↑ 15% | 90 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is $31,190. This typically ranges from $26,140 for entry-level positions to $36,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is 7.7% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
No, it is not exceptionally lucrative, but offers balanced purchasing power.The average salary of $31,190 is below the national average, but the cost of living also matches the national average. This results in a stable, though not high-paying, economic environment for these workers.
Is Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Great Falls, MT ($30,450) and Helena, MT.
How does the local salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Food Preparation Workers in Southwest Montana is $31,190, which is approximately 8% lower than the national average of $33,810.
What is the Cost of Living in Southwest Montana?
The Cost of Living Index for Southwest Montana is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the United States.
How concentrated are Food Preparation Worker jobs in this region?
The Location Quotient of 0.96 indicates that the concentration of Food Preparation Worker jobs in Southwest Montana is very close to the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand.
What is the total number of Food Preparation Workers in the area?
There are approximately 210 Food Preparation Workers employed in the Southwest Montana 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 210 employees in the Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 5.524 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 Southwest Montana nonmetropolitan area