Food Preparation Workers Salary in Miami, FL
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL
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In Miami, FL, Food Preparation Workers earn a median annual salary of $34,820, with a median hourly wage of $16.74. This figure is slightly higher than the national median salary for the same occupation, which stands at $34,220. When compared to the local area's median household income of $73,481, it becomes evident that Food Preparation Workers in Miami typically earn less than half of what an average household earns. Despite this disparity, the job market for food preparation workers remains robust in the region, with an estimated employment figure of 17,520 individuals and a low unemployment rate of 2.90%, indicating strong demand for labor in this sector.
Entry-level Food Preparation Workers in Miami tend to earn near the 10th percentile mark at approximately $28,050 annually, while those with more experience can reach salaries up to the 75th percentile, earning around $37,310 per year. The upper echelon of earners, reaching the 90th percentile, can make as much as $43,310 annually. This considerable salary range is driven by factors such as years of experience, skill level, and the type of establishment where they work—higher-end or upscale restaurants often offering better compensation compared to fast-food outlets. Additionally, those who advance into supervisory roles or specialize in preparing complex dishes may see further increases in their earnings.
Salary percentile breakdown
Miami economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Food Preparation Workers make per hour in Miami?
The median hourly wage for Food Preparation Workers in Miami, FL is $16.74, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.23 or more per hour.
Is Miami above or below average for Food Preparation Workers salaries?
The median Food Preparation Workers salary in Miami, FL is 1.8% above 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 Miami?
Entry-level Food Preparation Workers (10th percentile) earn around $28,050 per year in Miami, FL. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $30,540.