Food Preparation Workers salary 2025: $35,320 median, outlook -3.4%
The median annual wage for Food Preparation Workers in the United States is $35,320, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2024 estimates. That works out to roughly $17 per hour. The top 10% earn up to $45,340, while the bottom 10% make $25,810 or less. Nearly 893,600 people work in this occupation, but the job market is shrinking.
How much Food Preparation Workers earn
Nationally, the mean hourly wage is $16.97, which comes to $35,290 annually — almost identical to the median. Pay varies widely by experience and location.
The typical range runs from $25,810 (10th percentile) to $45,340 (90th percentile). Entry-level workers often start near the lower end, while experienced prep cooks in high-cost areas or busy kitchens can hit the upper tier.
- Median: $35,320 | Mean: $35,290
- 10th percentile: $25,810 | 90th percentile: $45,340
- Employment: 893,600 positions
Pay by state
Washington pays the most for Food Preparation Workers, with an average wage of $40,910. The District of Columbia follows at $39,600, then California ($39,350), Colorado ($38,960), and Massachusetts ($38,900). These states generally have higher costs of living and stronger minimum wage laws.
At the low end, Louisiana averages just $23,620 — barely above the national 10th percentile. Mississippi ($26,240) and Kentucky ($26,850) also lag well behind.
How to become Food Preparation Worker
This is one of the easiest occupations to enter. No formal education is required beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. Most training happens on the job, learning basic knife skills, food safety, and kitchen procedures.
Some employers prefer or require a food handler's card or ServSafe certification, which you can earn after a short course and exam.
- No college degree needed
- On-the-job training typical
- Optional certification: ServSafe Food Handler
- Skills: attention to detail, stamina, teamwork
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 3.4% decline in employment for Food Preparation Workers from 2024 to 2034, meaning the occupation is expected to lose positions. Despite the drop, about 148,000 openings each year will arise from workers leaving the field or retiring.
Automation and the shift toward fast-casual models that consolidate prep tasks are reducing demand. Still, turnover is high, so jobs will remain available for those who want to start a kitchen career.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Food Preparation Workers in 2025?
The national median salary is $35,320 per year, with a typical range of $25,810 to $45,340. These are BLS OEWS estimates from May 2024.
How do I become a Food Preparation Worker?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED. Most training is on-the-job. A food handler certification (like ServSafe) may help you get hired.
Is food preparation a growing career?
No, employment is projected to decline 3.4% from 2024 to 2034. However, about 148,000 job openings are expected each year due to worker turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Food Preparation Workers data.