Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Atlanta, GA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA

Median annual salary $28,160 -7.6% vs national
Median hourly $13.54
10th percentile $21,870
90th percentile $36,650
Employed locally 80,930
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Atlanta, GA
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    In Atlanta, GA, fast food and counter workers have a median annual salary of $28,160, which is below the national median for this occupation at $30,480. This places their earnings significantly lower than the area's median household income of $86,338. On an hourly basis, these workers earn approximately $13.54, reflecting their position in the local labor market where they are among some of the lower-paid occupations. With a low unemployment rate of 3.40% in the region, job opportunities for fast food and counter workers remain relatively stable; however, the income levels indicate that many may need to work multiple jobs or rely on additional household earners to meet typical living expenses.

    For entry-level fast food and counter workers in Atlanta, earnings start at around $21,870 annually (10th percentile), with more experienced employees reaching up to $36,650 per year (90th percentile). The disparity between these figures is driven by factors such as tenure, hours worked, experience within the industry, and additional skills or certifications that may warrant higher pay. For instance, those in the 75th percentile earn around $30,390 annually, which suggests a significant increase associated with gaining more on-the-job experience or moving into supervisory roles. The progression from entry-level to experienced positions reflects the potential for salary growth within this field, albeit at a modest pace compared to other professions.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $21,870
    25th
    $22,730
    50th (median)
    $28,160
    75th
    $30,390
    90th
    $36,650

    Atlanta economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,338 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 33% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 67% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Atlanta, GA is $13.54, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $17.80 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Atlanta, GA is 7.6% 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 Atlanta?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $21,870 per year in Atlanta, GA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $22,730.