Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Detroit, MI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI

Median annual salary $29,490 -3.2% vs national
Median hourly $14.18
10th percentile $23,340
90th percentile $35,780
Employed locally 47,450
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Detroit, MI
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    In Detroit, MI, the typical Fast Food and Counter Worker earns a median annual salary of $29,490, with an hourly wage of approximately $14.18. This figure is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480. When comparing these earnings to local household income in Detroit, it becomes apparent that these workers' salaries constitute about 39% of the area's median household income of $75,123. This significant disparity highlights the financial challenges faced by individuals within this occupation, particularly when considering their limited earning potential relative to broader economic conditions in the region.

    For Fast Food and Counter Workers in Detroit, there is a noticeable wage gap between entry-level and experienced employees. Those at the 10th percentile earn $23,340 annually, while workers at the 25th percentile make $27,880, reflecting initial earnings for those new to the field. On the higher end of the spectrum, individuals at the 75th percentile receive $31,320, with top earners in the 90th percentile making up to $35,780 per year. The differences in wages are driven by several factors including experience, hours worked, and performance-based incentives or bonuses. Experienced workers often command higher pay due to greater productivity, familiarity with customer service nuances, and potentially taking on supervisory roles that come with additional responsibilities and compensation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $23,340
    25th
    $27,880
    50th (median)
    $29,490
    75th
    $31,320
    90th
    $35,780

    Detroit economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $75,123 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 39% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 61% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Detroit, MI is $14.18, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $17.38 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Detroit, MI is 3.2% 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 Detroit?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $23,340 per year in Detroit, MI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $27,880.