Food Preparation Workers Salary in Dallas, TX
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX
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In Dallas, TX, food preparation workers earn a median annual salary of $30,250 and an hourly wage of $14.54. This median income is notably lower than the national median for the same occupation, which stands at $34,220 annually. When compared to the local median household income in Dallas, which is $87,155, food preparation workers earn significantly less, highlighting a considerable disparity between their earnings and those of typical households in the area. With an estimated employment of 24,250 individuals within this occupation, it represents a notable segment of the labor market despite its lower earning potential.
The salary range for entry-level food preparation workers begins at the 10th percentile with $24,960 annually, while more experienced workers can earn up to the 90th percentile, which amounts to $38,710 per year. The significant variance between these figures is driven primarily by factors such as experience, skills acquired over time, and any additional responsibilities or specialized duties that seasoned workers might assume. Additionally, the local unemployment rate of 3.90% suggests a relatively stable job market, potentially influencing wage growth for those who have demonstrated reliability and competence in their roles.
Salary percentile breakdown
Dallas economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Food Preparation Workers make per hour in Dallas?
The median hourly wage for Food Preparation Workers in Dallas, TX is $14.54, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.21 or more per hour.
Is Dallas above or below average for Food Preparation Workers salaries?
The median Food Preparation Workers salary in Dallas, TX is 11.6% below the national median of $34,220. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Food Preparation Workers in Dallas?
Entry-level Food Preparation Workers (10th percentile) earn around $24,960 per year in Dallas, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $27,010.