Average Food Preparation Workers Salary in Worcester, MA
Food Preparation Workers in Worcester, MA, earn an average annual salary of $38,740, which is notably higher than the national average of $33,810. This elevated compensation is often influenced by the specific economic conditions and demand within the Worcester metropolitan area, reflecting a localized premium for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,740 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $46,650.
- Outlook: Worcester presents a stable employment landscape for Food Preparation Workers, with a local workforce of 1,420 individuals. The Location Quotient of 0.7 suggests that while the concentration of these jobs is slightly below the national average, the absolute number of workers indicates a consistent presence and demand within the local economy.
Salary Overview
The average Food Preparation Workers in Worcester, MA earns+14.6%above the national average.
$18.6
$745
$3,228
Food Preparation Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Food Preparation Workers in Worcester have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and inflation. This upward trajectory is typical for roles that are fundamental to the service industry, especially in a city with a dynamic economy.
Food Preparation Workers Salary Distribution in Worcester, MA
Career progression for Food Preparation Workers in Worcester typically leads to increased earnings. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, but with accumulated experience and demonstrated skill, workers can advance to senior roles commanding higher salaries. The percentile gaps in pay signify clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $33,790 | $16.2 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $29,055 | $14 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $36,430 | $17.5 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $48,425 | $23.3 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $46,650 | $22.4 |
Detailed Food Preparation Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,740
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,740
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $38,740 in Worcester 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 Worcester is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial footing without significant strain or advantage due to living expenses.
Job Market Context
1,420
Total Jobs
4.023
Per 1K Jobs
0.7
Location Quotient
Worcester, MA has 0.70x 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 0.7, the job market for Food Preparation Workers in Worcester is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the demand exists, the field may not be oversaturated, potentially offering a balanced environment for job seekers where competition is present but not overwhelming.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Food Preparation Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts nonmetropolitan area Food Preparation Workers Salary | $41,130↑ 6% | 14 mi |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $37,650↓ 3% | 37 mi |
| Amherst Town-Northampton, MA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $39,100↑ 1% | 37 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Food Preparation Workers Salary | $41,050↑ 6% | 37 mi |
| Springfield, MA Food Preparation Workers Salary | $38,130↓ 2% | 39 mi |
Comparing salaries near Worcester, MA
Hiring Food Preparation Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food Preparation Workers make in Worcester, MA?
The median annual salary for a Food Preparation Workers in Worcester, MA is $38,740. This typically ranges from $33,790 for entry-level positions to $46,650 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Worcester, MA is 14.6% higher than the national median of $33,810.
Is Worcester, MA a lucrative place for Food Preparation Workerss?
Yes, Worcester, MA offers a slightly more lucrative environment for Food Preparation Workers compared to the national average.Food Preparation Workers in Worcester earn approximately $4,930 more annually than their national counterparts. This higher nominal wage, combined with a cost of living that matches the national average, makes Worcester a financially favorable location.
Is Worcester, MA a good place to live for Food Preparation Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Worcester, MA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Worcester, MA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Massachusetts nonmetropolitan area ($41,130) and Providence-Warwick, RI-MA.
What is the average salary for a Food Preparation Worker in Worcester, MA?
The average annual salary for a Food Preparation Worker in Worcester, MA is $38,740.
How does Worcester's salary for this role compare to the national average?
Food Preparation Workers in Worcester earn approximately $4,930 more per year on average than the national average salary of $33,810.
What is the Cost of Living in Worcester, MA?
Worcester, MA has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average.
How concentrated is the job market for Food Preparation Workers in Worcester?
The job market for Food Preparation Workers in Worcester has a Location Quotient of 0.7, indicating it is slightly less concentrated than the national average.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,420 employees in the Worcester, MA area with a job density of 4.023 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Food Preparation Workers Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Worcester, MA
- All Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Management Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Healthcare Support Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Production Occupations Salary in Worcester, MA
- Browse All Jobs in Worcester, MA →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Food Preparation Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Worcester, MA