Food Preparation Workers Salary in Memphis, TN-MS-AR

In Memphis, TN-MS-AR, food preparation workers earn a median annual salary of $27,430, with an hourly wage of $13.19. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $34,220 annually. When compared to the local area's median household income of $64,743, it becomes evident that earnings for food preparation workers are significantly below the regional average. This disparity suggests that individuals in this role might face financial challenges when attempting to support a household solely on their wages, highlighting potential economic pressures faced by those employed in this sector within the Memphis region.

Entry-level food preparation workers typically earn around $21,740 annually, representing the 10th percentile of earnings for this occupation. In contrast, experienced workers at the 75th percentile earn approximately $34,150 per year, demonstrating a substantial difference driven primarily by factors such as skill level, experience, and employment setting (e.g., fast food versus fine dining establishments). The gap between entry-level and more seasoned workers can be attributed to increased responsibilities, efficiency improvements, and possibly higher demand for experienced staff. These variables underscore the potential for wage growth within the occupation over time, providing an incentive for career development in this field.