Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in San Francisco, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA

Median annual salary $40,470 +32.8% vs national
Median hourly $19.46
10th percentile $36,290
90th percentile $53,860
Employed locally 47,330
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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San Francisco, CA
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    In San Francisco, CA, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $40,470, which translates to a median hourly wage of $19.46. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480 annually. When compared to local household income in the area, however, fast food and counter workers' earnings represent only about 30% of the San Francisco median household income of $133,780. This disparity highlights the broader economic challenges faced by individuals in these positions within a city known for its high cost of living.

    The salary range for fast food and counter workers in San Francisco varies significantly based on experience. Workers at the entry-level, represented by the 10th percentile, earn around $36,290 annually, while those at the 25th percentile make approximately $37,770. Experienced employees in the 75th percentile can expect to earn about $47,420 per year, and top earners in the 90th percentile bring home up to $53,860 annually. The differences in earnings are primarily driven by factors such as tenure, hours worked, and performance-related bonuses or shifts, reflecting a typical progression from entry-level positions to more experienced roles within the industry.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $36,290
    25th
    $37,770
    50th (median)
    $40,470
    75th
    $47,420
    90th
    $53,860

    San Francisco economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $133,780 2023 • Census ACS
    Fast Food and Counter Workers salary vs area income 30% Median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary is 70% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in San Francisco, CA is $19.46, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $26.54 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in San Francisco, CA is 32.8% above 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 San Francisco?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $36,290 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $37,770.