Food Preparation Workers Salary in Massachusetts
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - MA
Median Annual Salary in Massachusetts
$35,453
$17.04 / hour
▲ 22.0% above national avg
National Median
$29,060
$13.97 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$24,932
Missouri equivalent (COL: 142.2)
Food Preparation Workers Salary in Massachusetts
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $18,790 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,526 |
| 50th (Median) | $35,453 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,925 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $60,979 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The Massachusetts median salary of $35,453 for Food Preparation Workers has the purchasing power of approximately $24,932 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
Massachusetts's higher cost of living (COL index: 142.2) 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 Massachusetts?
Food Preparation Workers in Massachusetts earn a median annual salary of $35,453 per year ($17.04/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $29,060.
Is Massachusetts a good state for Food Preparation Workers?
Massachusetts pays above the national average for food preparation workers, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in Massachusetts is higher average (COL index: 142.2).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Food Preparation Workers in Massachusetts?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 142.2 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $35,453 salary in Massachusetts has the purchasing power of approximately $24,932 in Missouri. Higher living costs in Massachusetts reduce real purchasing power.
How does Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Radiologists | $378,102 |
| 2 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $373,588 |
| 3 | Neurologists | $360,632 |
| 4 | Surgeons, All Other | $359,314 |
| 5 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $331,694 |
| 6 | Psychiatrists | $304,754 |
| 7 | Physicians, Pathologists | $297,582 |
| 8 | General Internal Medicine Physicians | $296,875 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Food Preparation Workers in Massachusetts
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