Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in New Jersey
Based on 94K+ workers in New Jersey
Median Annual Salary (NJ)
$34,150
$16.42/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
+11.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $39K
94K employed in New Jersey
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New Jersey is $34,150 per year, which translates to approximately $16 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, reflecting the state's economic landscape and the demand for these essential roles. With 93,730 individuals employed in this sector across New Jersey, it represents a significant portion of the state's workforce.
Several factors can influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New Jersey. These include the specific employer, the worker's experience level, and the geographic location within the state. Larger chains or establishments in high-cost-of-living areas may offer compensation towards the higher end of the $32,220 to $39,130 salary range.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in New Jersey
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $32,220 |
| 25th percentile | $32,220 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $34,150 |
| 75th percentile | $36,150 |
| 90th percentile | $39,130 |
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Jersey) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $34,150 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,175 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Jersey Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $34,150 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $35,175 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in New Jersey
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $32,220 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $34,150 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $36,150 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $39,130 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in New Jersey
How other high-demand occupations in New Jersey compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($34,150 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in NJ | $44,960 | +31.7% | $21.62/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in NJ | $38,460 | +12.6% | $18.49/hr |
| Cashier in NJ | $34,590 | +1.3% | $16.63/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NJ | $36,520 | +6.9% | $17.56/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NJ | $37,090 | +8.6% | $17.83/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NJ | $37,250 | +9.1% | $17.91/hr |
| Security Guard in NJ | $38,880 | +13.9% | $18.69/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in NJ | $39,610 | +16.0% | $19.04/hr |
| Receptionist in NJ | $41,650 | +22.0% | $20.02/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in NJ | $42,480 | +24.4% | $20.42/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NJ | $46,830 | +37.1% | $22.51/hr |
| Medical Assistant in NJ | $47,210 | +38.2% | $22.70/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical Fast Food and Counter Worker salary range in New Jersey?
- In New Jersey, the salary for a Fast Food and Counter Worker typically falls between $32,220 and $39,130 annually. The median annual salary is $34,150.
How much do Fast Food and Counter Workers make per hour in New Jersey?
- Based on the median annual salary of $34,150, Fast Food and Counter Workers in New Jersey earn approximately $16 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the yearly earnings.
Is the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New Jersey higher than the national average?
- Yes, the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New Jersey is 11.7% higher than the national average. This means New Jersey workers in this role earn more on average than their counterparts across the country.
What is the total number of Fast Food and Counter Workers employed in New Jersey?
- There are approximately 93,730 individuals employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in New Jersey. This indicates a substantial presence of these positions within the state's job market.