Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Yakima, WA

In Yakima, WA, fast food and counter workers earn a median annual salary of $34,950, which translates to a median hourly wage of $16.80. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $30,480, indicating that these workers in Yakima are generally better compensated compared to their peers across the country. When comparing to local household income metrics, the median salary for fast food and counter workers represents about 51% of the area's median household income of $68,015. This comparison highlights how earnings from this occupation align with broader economic conditions within the region.

The salary spectrum for fast food and counter workers in Yakima varies based on experience levels. Entry-level workers tend to earn closer to the lower end of the pay scale, around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $33,860 annually or about $16.26 per hour. In contrast, more experienced workers can reach up to the 90th percentile, earning as much as $42,040 per year or roughly $20.21 hourly. The difference in earnings is primarily driven by factors such as tenure with a particular employer, proficiency and efficiency gained over time, potential for supervisory roles, and individual negotiation skills. These elements collectively contribute to the broader salary distribution observed within this occupation.