Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other Salary in San Francisco, CA

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

Median annual salary $38,960 +11.9% vs national
Median hourly $18.73
10th percentile $35,360
90th percentile $60,600
Employed locally 3,670
National median $34,830

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Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other
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San Francisco, CA
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    In San Francisco, CA, workers in the occupation of Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other, earn a median annual salary of $38,960, which translates to a median hourly wage of $18.73. This is notably higher than the national median for the same occupation at $34,830, reflecting the elevated cost of living in the area. When compared to the local household income, with an area median household income of $133,780, it becomes evident that these workers earn significantly less on average. The gap underscores the economic challenges faced by individuals in this field within San Francisco's high-cost environment, where housing and everyday expenses can be particularly burdensome.

    Entry-level workers in this occupation in San Francisco typically start at around the 10th percentile, earning approximately $35,360 annually. In contrast, experienced workers may earn up to or beyond the 90th percentile, with salaries reaching as high as $60,600. The substantial difference between these figures is primarily driven by factors such as experience, on-the-job performance, and additional skills acquired over time. Additionally, those in higher-paying roles might benefit from longer tenure, specialized training, or positions that involve greater responsibility or complexity within the food service industry. This variance highlights how career progression and skill development can significantly impact earnings potential for workers in this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $35,360
    25th
    $37,650
    50th (median)
    $38,960
    75th
    $44,200
    90th
    $60,600

    San Francisco economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $133,780 2023 • Census ACS
    Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other salary vs area income 29% Median Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other salary is 71% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other make per hour in San Francisco?

    The median hourly wage for Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other in San Francisco, CA is $18.73, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $30.85 or more per hour.

    Is San Francisco above or below average for Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other salaries?

    The median Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other salary in San Francisco, CA is 11.9% above the national median of $34,830. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other in San Francisco?

    Entry-level Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other (10th percentile) earn around $35,360 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $37,650.