Cooks, Fast Food Salary in Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN

In Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN, a typical cook in the fast-food industry earns a median annual salary of $28,830, which translates to approximately $13.86 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national median for cooks, which stands at $30,160. When comparing this income level with the local area's median household income of $79,490, it becomes evident that fast-food cooks in Cincinnati earn significantly less than the average household. The disparity highlights the challenges faced by individuals in lower-wage occupations compared to broader economic measures within the community.

Entry-level workers in the fast-food industry often find themselves earning closer to the 10th percentile mark, which is $23,160 annually. As these employees gain experience and move up through various positions or roles, their earnings can increase significantly, potentially reaching the 75th percentile at around $31,820 per year, with top earners hitting the 90th percentile at approximately $36,210 annually. The differences in pay between entry-level and experienced workers are driven by factors such as tenure, skill development, responsibility level, and performance. Additionally, employment opportunities for cooks in this region number about 4,110, with a relatively low local unemployment rate of 4.20%, suggesting a competitive job market where experience can play a crucial role in advancing career prospects and income potential.