Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Harrisburg, PA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA

Median annual salary $28,350 -7% vs national
Median hourly $13.63
10th percentile $22,030
90th percentile $35,370
Employed locally 7,420
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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Harrisburg, PA
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    In Harrisburg, PA, fast food and counter workers have a median annual salary of $28,350, which is below the national median for this occupation at $30,480. This local median translates to a median hourly wage of $13.63. When compared to the area's median household income of $79,281, it becomes evident that fast food and counter workers earn significantly less than the typical household in Harrisburg. The disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals employed in this sector, as their earnings fall below both the national standard for their occupation and the average household income within the region.

    Entry-level fast food and counter workers in Harrisburg generally earn around $22,030 annually, aligning with the 10th percentile of the salary range. As these workers gain experience, they may see increases up to the median level of $28,350 or higher. Experienced employees can potentially reach earnings at or near the 75th percentile, which stands at $32,830 per year, and those in highly specialized or managerial roles might earn as much as $35,370 annually, reflecting the 90th percentile. The difference in wages is primarily driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, shift differentials (e.g., working late hours), and additional responsibilities that come with experience and advancement within the role.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $22,030
    25th
    $23,180
    50th (median)
    $28,350
    75th
    $32,830
    90th
    $35,370

    Harrisburg economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $79,281 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 36% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 64% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Harrisburg, PA is $13.63, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $17.11 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Harrisburg, PA is 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 Harrisburg?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $22,030 per year in Harrisburg, PA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $23,180.