Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Arkansas
Based on 36K+ workers in Arkansas
Median Annual Salary (AR)
$26,250
$12.62/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
-14.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$23K – $32K
36K employed in Arkansas
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Arkansas is $26,250 annually, which equates to approximately $13 per hour. This figure is 14.1% lower than the national average, reflecting specific economic conditions within the state for this occupation. There are an estimated 35,660 individuals employed in these roles across Arkansas.
Several factors can influence the specific Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Arkansas. These include the employer's size and location, the specific responsibilities of the role, and the individual's experience level. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the $23,240 to $32,120 range, while more experienced workers or those in supervisory roles might earn at the higher end.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Arkansas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $23,240 |
| 25th percentile | $23,570 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $26,250 |
| 75th percentile | $27,850 |
| 90th percentile | $32,120 |
Top-Paying Industries for Fast Food and Counter Worker (U.S.)
Which industries pay Fast Food and Counter Workers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Fast Food and Counter Workers in Arkansas tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation and Warehousing | $38,740 | 390 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $37,820 | 18K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $36,850 | 17K |
| Educational Services | $35,370 | 117K |
| Wholesale Trade | $34,990 | 4K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Arkansas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $26,250 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,038 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Arkansas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $26,250 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,038 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in Arkansas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $23,570 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $26,250 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $27,850 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $32,120 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in Arkansas
How other high-demand occupations in Arkansas compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($26,250 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in AR | $30,180 | +15.0% | $14.51/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in AR | $24,680 | -6.0% | $11.87/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in AR | $27,660 | +5.4% | $13.30/hr |
| Cashier in AR | $27,670 | +5.4% | $13.30/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in AR | $29,270 | +11.5% | $14.07/hr |
| Tutor in AR | $30,810 | +17.4% | $14.81/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in AR | $34,430 | +31.2% | $16.55/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in AR | $34,700 | +32.2% | $16.68/hr |
| Receptionist in AR | $34,840 | +32.7% | $16.75/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in AR | $35,210 | +34.1% | $16.93/hr |
| Security Guard in AR | $35,770 | +36.3% | $17.20/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in AR | $37,630 | +43.4% | $18.09/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Arkansas?
- The salary range for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Arkansas typically falls between $23,240 and $32,120 per year. The median salary is $26,250 per year, or $13 per hour, which is below the national average.
How does the median salary for this role in Arkansas compare to the national average?
- The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Arkansas is $26,250 per year. This is 14.1% lower than the national average for similar positions, indicating a difference in earning potential within the state.
What are the total number of people employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in Arkansas?
- There are approximately 35,660 individuals employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in Arkansas. This significant number highlights the prevalence of these roles within the state's workforce.
Is it possible to earn more than the median salary of $26,250 as a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Arkansas?
- Yes, it is possible to earn more than the median salary of $26,250 per year. The salary range extends up to $32,120, meaning experienced workers or those in management positions may achieve higher earnings.