Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in McAllen, TX

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX

Median annual salary $22,690 -25.6% vs national
Median hourly $10.91
10th percentile $19,200
90th percentile $32,870
Employed locally 10,070
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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McAllen, TX
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    In McAllen, TX, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $22,690, with an hourly wage averaging $10.91. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480 annually. When compared to local household incomes, the earnings of these workers represent approximately 43% of the area's median household income of $52,281. The relatively low wages highlight a disparity between typical worker earnings and broader economic conditions in McAllen, where many households may rely on multiple income sources to meet financial needs.

    The salary range for fast food and counter workers in McAllen varies significantly based on experience levels, with entry-level employees often earning closer to the 10th percentile at $19,200 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can earn up to or beyond the 90th percentile, reaching approximately $32,870 a year. This disparity is driven by factors such as tenure in the position, skill level, and performance, with higher earnings often reflecting greater responsibility, such as supervisory roles or specialized service tasks. The difference between entry-level and experienced positions underscores how experience and job complexity can substantially influence earning potential within this occupation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $19,200
    25th
    $21,390
    50th (median)
    $22,690
    75th
    $26,940
    90th
    $32,870

    McAllen economic context

    Unemployment rate 6.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $52,281 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 43% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 57% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in McAllen, TX is $10.91, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $15.79 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in McAllen, TX is 25.6% 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 McAllen?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $19,200 per year in McAllen, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $21,390.