Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Asheville, NC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Asheville, NC

Median annual salary $29,240 -4.1% vs national
Median hourly $14.06
10th percentile $22,010
90th percentile $36,840
Employed locally 4,410
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Asheville, NC
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    In Asheville, North Carolina, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $29,240, which translates to approximately $14.06 per hour. When compared to the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480, Asheville's figures are slightly lower. This disparity highlights regional economic differences that affect earnings in various areas across the United States. In terms of household income, fast food and counter workers' salaries represent a modest portion of the local median household income, which is reported to be $69,236. Given this context, individuals working in this field typically earn less than half of what an average household in Asheville makes annually, reflecting broader economic challenges faced by those in lower-wage occupations.

    Entry-level fast food and counter workers in Asheville generally see earnings near the 10th percentile mark at approximately $22,010 annually. In contrast, more experienced employees may approach or exceed the 75th percentile salary of $34,480. This wage gap is primarily driven by factors such as tenure, skill acquisition, and performance levels within the job role. Additionally, workers who progress to supervisory positions often see higher earnings due to increased responsibilities and managerial duties. The local unemployment rate of 4.00% suggests a relatively stable job market, yet it still underscores the competitive nature for upward mobility in this sector, where experience plays a crucial role in determining salary increments.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $22,010
    25th
    $24,240
    50th (median)
    $29,240
    75th
    $34,480
    90th
    $36,840

    Asheville economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $69,236 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 42% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 58% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Fast Food and Counter Workers make per hour in Asheville?

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Asheville, NC is $14.06, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $17.51 or more per hour.

    Is Asheville above or below average for Fast Food and Counter Workers salaries?

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Asheville, NC is 4.1% below the national median of $30,480. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Asheville?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $22,010 per year in Asheville, NC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $24,240.