Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Waterbury, CT

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Waterbury-Shelton, CT

Median annual salary $33,300 +9.3% vs national
Median hourly $16.01
10th percentile $32,640
90th percentile $36,170
Employed locally 3,760
National median $30,480

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Fast Food and Counter Workers
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    In Waterbury, CT, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $33,300, with an hourly wage of approximately $16.01. This figure is slightly above the national median for this occupation, which stands at $30,480. When compared to the local household income in Waterbury, where the area's median is $86,365, it becomes evident that these workers' earnings constitute a smaller proportion of typical household incomes. The local unemployment rate, currently at 3.60%, suggests a moderately competitive job market, which may influence wage levels and employment opportunities for those within this sector.

    Entry-level fast food and counter workers in Waterbury typically earn around the median salary, with wages starting near the 10th percentile at $32,640 annually. As experience is gained, salaries tend to increase, reaching up to the 75th percentile of approximately $35,110 per year for more seasoned employees. The difference between entry-level and experienced workers' earnings can be driven by factors such as tenure in the position, level of responsibility, and performance-based incentives. Additionally, those at the higher end of the pay spectrum, around the 90th percentile earning up to $36,170 annually, may have advanced skills or supervisory roles that justify their increased compensation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $32,640
    25th
    $32,640
    50th (median)
    $33,300
    75th
    $35,110
    90th
    $36,170

    Waterbury economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.60% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,365 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 Waterbury?

    The median hourly wage for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Waterbury, CT is $16.01, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $17.63 or more per hour.

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

    The median Fast Food and Counter Workers salary in Waterbury, CT is 9.3% 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 Waterbury?

    Entry-level Fast Food and Counter Workers (10th percentile) earn around $32,640 per year in Waterbury, CT. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $32,640.