Cooks, Fast Food Salary in Southeast Missouri

In Southeast Missouri, cooks in the fast food industry typically earn a median annual salary of $27,520, which is below the national median for this occupation at $30,160. The median hourly wage stands at $13.23, indicating that local earnings are somewhat lower compared to the broader U.S. context. When considering household income, these figures suggest that fast food cooks in Southeast Missouri may earn less than what might be expected based on national trends. With a 10th percentile salary of $25,580 and a 90th percentile of $30,080, there is some variation within the occupation, but overall, earnings tend to cluster below the U.S. median.

Entry-level fast food cooks in Southeast Missouri can expect to earn near the lower end of the pay scale, with salaries starting around or slightly above the 10th percentile at approximately $25,580 annually. As these workers gain experience and possibly take on more responsibilities or advanced roles within their establishments, they may see increases that push them towards the median salary range of $27,520. Ultimately, those who reach the 75th percentile earn about $28,310 per year, while top earners in the 90th percentile can make up to $30,080 annually. The difference between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as tenure, skill proficiency, ability to manage more complex tasks or larger teams, and potentially additional certifications or qualifications that enhance their value within the industry.