Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Springfield, MO
In Springfield, MO, Food Preparation Workers can expect an average annual salary of $32,560. This figure is slightly below the national average of $33,810, indicating localized economic factors and demand may influence compensation. The specific pay scale in Springfield is often a reflection of the regional job market dynamics and the cost of labor within the state.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,560 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 33.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $37,480.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 970 individuals in this role, Springfield, MO presents a moderately sized employment landscape for Food Preparation Workers. The location quotient of 0.76 suggests that this occupation is slightly less concentrated here compared to the national average, implying a stable but not exceptionally high demand for these services.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Springfield, MO earns-3.7%below the national average.
$15.7
$626
$2,713
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Springfield, MO is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Food Preparation Workers have seen modest growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for food services, and potential adjustments in minimum wage laws.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Springfield, MO
For Food Preparation Workers in Springfield, MO, career progression typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior or specialized roles. As experience increases, individuals can expect their salaries to rise, with significant percentile gaps often observed between those starting out and seasoned professionals with extensive culinary or supervisory skills.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $26,790 | $12.9 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $24,420 | $11.7 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $30,380 | $14.6 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $40,700 | $19.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $37,480 | $18 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,560
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,560
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $32,560 in Springfield, MO aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Food Preparation Worker's salary in Springfield is comparable to that of someone earning the national average, offering a stable financial footing relative to the cost of goods and services.
Job Market Context
970
Total Jobs
4.356
Per 1K Jobs
0.76
Location Quotient
Springfield, MO has 0.76x 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 0.76 for Food Preparation Workers in Springfield, MO indicates that the occupation is less prevalent than the national average. This suggests that while there are job opportunities, the market may not be saturated, potentially offering a competitive environment for skilled workers seeking employment in this sector.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Joplin, MO-KS Food Preparation Workers Salary | $30,970↓ 5% | 67 mi |
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR Food Preparation Workers Salary | $32,090↓ 1% | 91 mi |
Comparing salaries near Springfield, MO
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Springfield, MO?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Springfield, MO is $32,560. This typically ranges from $26,790 for entry-level positions to $37,480 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Springfield, MO is 3.7% lower than the national median of $33,810.
Is Springfield, MO a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workers?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.The average salary of $32,560 is slightly below the national average, and the cost of living is exactly at the national average. This indicates standard earning potential rather than exceptional financial gain.
Is Springfield, MO a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Springfield, MO is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Springfield, MO?
Some top paying nearby cities include Joplin, MO-KS ($30,970) and Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR.
How does the number of Food Preparation Workers in Springfield compare nationally?
Springfield, MO has 4.356 Food Preparation Workers per 1,000 workers, which is slightly below the national average, indicating a moderate presence in the local job market.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for this role in Springfield?
An LQ of 0.76 means that Food Preparation Workers are less concentrated in Springfield, MO compared to the national average, suggesting a slightly lower relative demand or presence of these jobs.
Does the cost of living in Springfield affect the value of the Food Preparation Worker salary?
No, the cost of living in Springfield is exactly at the national average (100), meaning the $32,560 salary has average purchasing power compared to the rest of the country.
What is the total number of Food Preparation Workers employed in Springfield, MO?
There are approximately 970 Food Preparation Workers employed in Springfield, MO, representing the local workforce dedicated to this occupation.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 970 employees in the Springfield, MO area with a job density of 4.356 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 Springfield, MO