Food preparation workers Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and highest-paying US metros, from official BLS data.
The median salary for Food preparation workers in the United States is $35,320 per year, about $17 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $29,950 and $38,550 a year.
Salary range
Highest-paying US metros for Food preparation workers
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| Yakima, WA | $41,750 |
| Minot, ND | $37,310 |
| Kahului-Wailuku, HI | $46,680 |
| Wildwood-The Villages, FL | $35,410 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $45,580 |
| Grand Forks, ND-MN | $35,650 |
| Bismarck, ND | $37,270 |
| Walla Walla, WA | $40,030 |
| El Centro, CA | $38,610 |
| Fargo, ND-MN | $36,590 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Food preparation workers make in the US?
The median salary is $35,320 per year (about $17 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $29,950 and $38,550 a year.
How much do Food preparation workers make per hour?
About $17 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $35,320 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Food preparation workers?
Typical entry-level education: No formal credential, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only: they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
View Food preparation workers jobs
Browse open positions in this career: remote and on-site roles available.
Find Food preparation workers jobs →