Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Boulder, CO

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Boulder, CO

Median annual salary $36,130 +18.5% vs national
Median hourly $17.37
10th percentile $33,700
90th percentile $45,250
Employed locally 4,510
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Boulder, CO
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    In Boulder, CO, Fast Food and Counter Workers earn a median annual salary of $36,130, which translates to a median hourly wage of $17.37. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480 annually. When compared to the local household income in Boulder, where the median is $102,772, the earnings of these workers represent approximately 35% of the area's median household income. Given the local unemployment rate of 4.20%, it suggests a competitive job market, yet the salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers remains below what is necessary to meet typical living expenses in Boulder, which tend to be higher than many other regions due to its cost of living.

    Entry-level workers in this field typically earn around $33,700 annually, placing them at the 10th percentile, while those earning closer to the median make about $36,130. More experienced workers can see their earnings increase up to approximately $45,250, which is at the 90th percentile. The significant difference in pay between entry-level and more seasoned employees largely stems from factors such as tenure, performance, responsibilities, and skill level. As workers gain experience and potentially take on supervisory roles or demonstrate exceptional customer service skills, their compensation can reflect these added contributions to their employers.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $33,700
    25th
    $34,840
    50th (median)
    $36,130
    75th
    $37,760
    90th
    $45,250

    Boulder economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,772 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 35% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 65% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Boulder, CO is $17.37, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.86 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Boulder, CO is 18.5% above 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 Boulder?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $33,700 per year in Boulder, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $34,840.