Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Bakersfield, CA

In Bakersfield, CA, the typical fast food and counter worker earns a median annual salary of $36,440, with an average hourly wage of $17.52. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480. When compared to local household income in Bakersfield, where the area's median household income is approximately $67,660, it becomes evident that fast food and counter workers generally earn about 54% of the median household income. This disparity highlights the financial challenges faced by many individuals working within this sector in Bakersfield, particularly given the local unemployment rate of 8.60%.

Salaries for fast food and counter workers vary significantly based on experience level, with entry-level positions earning at or near the lower end of the pay spectrum, while more experienced workers can earn substantially higher wages. Specifically, individuals at the 10th percentile earn around $34,060 annually, whereas those at the 75th percentile make about $41,730 per year, and top earners at the 90th percentile reach approximately $44,630. The differences in earnings are primarily driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, and specific job responsibilities within the industry. Those with more experience or who take on roles with greater responsibility tend to see higher pay, reflecting their increased contributions to their workplaces.