Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Dayton, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH

Median annual salary $28,140 -7.7% vs national
Median hourly $13.53
10th percentile $23,230
90th percentile $34,330
Employed locally 13,650
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Dayton, OH
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    In Dayton, Ohio, the typical fast food and counter worker earns a median annual salary of $28,140, with an hourly wage averaging $13.53. This figure is notably below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480. When compared to the local area's median household income of $69,752, it becomes evident that fast food and counter workers in Dayton earn significantly less than what is typical for a family in the region. This disparity highlights the financial challenges faced by individuals in these roles, as their earnings constitute just over 40% of the local median household income.

    The salary range for entry-level to experienced fast food and counter workers varies considerably. Those at the lower end (10th percentile) earn about $23,230 annually, while more experienced workers can make up to $34,330 per year, representing the 90th percentile. The primary drivers behind this wage difference include factors such as tenure in the position, hours worked, and any additional skills or certifications that might enhance a worker's value to their employer. Entry-level workers often start at salaries closer to the lower quartile of $26,250, whereas experienced workers with strong performance records or management responsibilities tend to earn wages near or above the 75th percentile, which is $29,910 annually.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $23,230
    25th
    $26,250
    50th (median)
    $28,140
    75th
    $29,910
    90th
    $34,330

    Dayton economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $69,752 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 40% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 60% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Dayton, OH is $13.53, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $16.75 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Dayton, OH is 7.7% 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 Dayton?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $23,230 per year in Dayton, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $26,250.