Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Columbia, SC

In Columbia, SC, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $26,310, which translates to approximately $12.65 per hour. When compared to the national median for this occupation at $30,480, local workers in Columbia earn notably less. This discrepancy highlights regional economic variations that may impact wage levels. Furthermore, considering the area's median household income of $66,146, the earnings of fast food and counter workers constitute a smaller proportion of household earnings locally than might be expected on a national scale. With an estimated employment of 11,590 individuals in this field, these wages play a significant role within the local economy.

Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile earn around $21,480 annually, while those at the 25th percentile make approximately $22,470 per year. In contrast, experienced workers who fall into the 75th percentile earn about $28,480, and those in the top 10% of earners reach up to $35,100 annually. The disparity between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as tenure, shift differentials, managerial responsibilities, and skills acquired over time. Additionally, local economic conditions and cost-of-living adjustments may also influence these wage differences, contributing to the varied earning potential within this occupation.