Food Preparation Workers Salary in Providence, RI-MA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Providence-Warwick, RI-MA

Median annual salary $35,830 +4.7% vs national
Median hourly $17.23
10th percentile $29,890
90th percentile $49,830
Employed locally 3,510
National median $34,220

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Food Preparation Workers
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Providence, RI-MA
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    In Providence, RI-MA, the typical food preparation worker earns a median annual salary of $35,830, which is slightly higher than the national median of $34,220. This reflects a modest premium in this region compared to the broader U.S. context. When juxtaposed with the local area's median household income of $85,646, it becomes evident that food preparation workers earn approximately 41.9% of what an average household earns annually. This discrepancy highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals in lower-wage occupations within a market where living costs and household earnings are relatively higher.

    For entry-level food preparation workers in Providence, RI-MA, salaries start at around $29,890 (10th percentile), while those with more experience can earn upwards of $49,830 (90th percentile). The progression from an entry-level position to a more experienced role is driven by factors such as tenure, skill development, and workplace demand. Experienced workers often benefit from increased responsibilities and efficiency, which contribute to higher earnings within the profession. This variance in salary underscores the importance of experience and expertise in enhancing earning potential for food preparation workers.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $29,890
    25th
    $32,090
    50th (median)
    $35,830
    75th
    $40,940
    90th
    $49,830

    Providence economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $85,646 2023 • Census ACS
    Food Preparation Workers salary vs area income 42% Median Food Preparation Workers salary is 58% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Food Preparation Workers make per hour in Providence?

    The median hourly wage for Food Preparation Workers in Providence, RI-MA is $17.23, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.74 or more per hour.

    Is Providence above or below average for Food Preparation Workers salaries?

    The median Food Preparation Workers salary in Providence, RI-MA is 4.7% 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 Providence?

    Entry-level Food Preparation Workers (10th percentile) earn around $29,890 per year in Providence, RI-MA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $32,090.