Food Preparation Workers Salary in New York, NY-NJ

In New York and New Jersey, Food Preparation Workers earn a median annual salary of $36,330, which is slightly higher than the national median of $34,220 for this occupation. This translates to an average hourly wage of approximately $17.47. When compared to the area’s median household income of $97,334, it becomes evident that individuals in this role typically earn less than half of what the average local household does annually. This discrepancy underscores a significant gap between individual earnings from food preparation positions and broader household incomes within the region.

The earnings potential for Food Preparation Workers varies significantly based on experience levels. Entry-level workers are likely to find themselves closer to the 10th percentile, earning around $31,940 per year, while those at the 25th percentile earn about $33,900 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers or those in higher-paying establishments can see salaries up to the 75th percentile of $43,060 or even reach the 90th percentile with earnings as high as $48,540 annually. This substantial variation is driven by factors such as years of experience, skill level, location within New York-NJ metropolitan area, and the specific type of food service establishment where they work. The industry’s demand for skilled workers and varying operational scales in different venues also contribute to these salary differences.