Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in North Carolina
Based on 92K+ workers in North Carolina
Median Annual Salary (NC)
$28,570
$13.74/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
-6.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$22K – $37K
92K employed in North Carolina
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in North Carolina is $28,570 per year, which translates to approximately $14 per hour. This figure is about 6.5% lower than the national average for this occupation. In North Carolina, over 92,000 individuals are employed in these roles, reflecting a significant presence in the state's service industry.
Several factors influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in North Carolina. Experience level plays a crucial role, with more seasoned employees often earning higher wages. Location within the state can also impact pay, as cost of living and local demand vary. Additionally, the specific employer and the responsibilities of the role can contribute to differences in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $21,800 |
| 25th percentile | $23,370 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $28,570 |
| 75th percentile | $34,370 |
| 90th percentile | $36,820 |
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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (North Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,427 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | North Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,570 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,427 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in North Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $23,370 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $28,570 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $34,370 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $36,820 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in North Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in North Carolina compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($28,570 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in NC | $35,400 | +23.9% | $17.02/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in NC | $32,150 | +12.5% | $15.46/hr |
| Cashier in NC | $28,880 | +1.1% | $13.88/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NC | $31,240 | +9.3% | $15.02/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NC | $31,370 | +9.8% | $15.08/hr |
| Security Guard in NC | $35,010 | +22.5% | $16.83/hr |
| Receptionist in NC | $35,440 | +24.0% | $17.04/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NC | $35,950 | +25.8% | $17.28/hr |
| Firefighter in NC | $37,940 | +32.8% | $18.24/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NC | $38,460 | +34.6% | $18.49/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in NC | $40,240 | +40.8% | $19.35/hr |
| Tutor in NC | $41,710 | +46.0% | $20.05/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in North Carolina?
- The median annual salary for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in North Carolina is $28,570. This means that half of workers in this field earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
How much do Fast Food and Counter Workers earn per hour in North Carolina?
- Based on the median annual salary, a Fast Food and Counter Worker in North Carolina typically earns around $14 per hour. This hourly rate is a good benchmark for entry-level and experienced workers.
What is the salary range for Fast Food and Counter Workers in North Carolina?
- The salary range for Fast Food and Counter Workers in North Carolina generally falls between $21,800 and $36,820 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, location, and specific job duties.
Is the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in North Carolina higher or lower than the national average?
- The Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in North Carolina is approximately 6.5% lower than the national average. This suggests that, on average, workers in this role in North Carolina earn less than their counterparts across the United States.