Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Durham, NC

In Durham, NC, the typical fast food and counter worker earns a median annual salary of $29,580, translating to an hourly wage of approximately $14.22. This figure is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480 annually. When compared to the local area's median household income of $81,017, it becomes evident that fast food and counter workers earn significantly less than the average household in Durham. Despite a relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.20%, these earnings indicate a substantial disparity between individual worker incomes and broader economic prosperity within the region.

Entry-level fast food and counter workers in Durham typically earn wages near or below the 10th percentile mark, which is $21,910 annually. In contrast, experienced workers with enhanced skills or responsibilities can earn up to the 90th percentile, reaching salaries as high as $38,420 per year. This substantial variation in earnings is driven by factors such as years of experience, proficiency in customer service, and the ability to handle multiple roles within a fast food setting. Additionally, opportunities for advancement into supervisory or managerial positions can further increase earnings potential beyond the typical hourly wage for entry-level workers.