Food Preparation Workers Salary in District of Columbia

$20,330 $65,977
10th pct Median: $38,359 90th pct
Percentile Annual Salary
10th (Entry Level)$20,330
25th Percentile$27,618
50th (Median)$38,359
75th Percentile$52,935
90th (Top Earners)$65,977
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

The District of Columbia median salary of $38,359 for Food Preparation Workers has the purchasing power of approximately $24,892 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).

District of Columbia's higher cost of living (COL index: 154.1) reduces the real purchasing power of wages compared to lower-cost states.

COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Food Preparation Workers make in District of Columbia?
Food Preparation Workers in District of Columbia earn a median annual salary of $38,359 per year ($18.44/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $29,060.
Is District of Columbia a good state for Food Preparation Workers?
District of Columbia pays above the national average for food preparation workers, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in District of Columbia is higher average (COL index: 154.1).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Food Preparation Workers in District of Columbia?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 154.1 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $38,359 salary in District of Columbia has the purchasing power of approximately $24,892 in Missouri. Higher living costs in District of Columbia reduce real purchasing power.
How does District of Columbia compare to neighboring states for Food Preparation Workers salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Food Preparation Workers salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.

Top Paying Jobs in District of Columbia

# Job Title Median Annual
1 Radiologists $409,094
2 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric $404,210
3 Neurologists $390,192
4 Surgeons, All Other $388,766
5 Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric $358,882
6 Psychiatrists $329,733
7 Physicians, Pathologists $321,974
8 General Internal Medicine Physicians $321,209
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

About Food Preparation Workers in District of Columbia

Food Preparation Workers work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the food service sector of the U.S. economy.

Education Required: No formal credential

View national Food Preparation Workers salary data →