Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Ohio
Based on 164K+ workers in Ohio
Median Annual Salary (OH)
$28,430
$13.67/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
-7.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$23K – $35K
164K employed in Ohio
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Ohio is $28,430 per year, or $14 per hour. This figure is 7.0% lower than the national average, reflecting regional economic factors and cost of living in Ohio. With 163,560 individuals employed in this sector across the state, it represents a significant segment of the service industry workforce.
Several factors can influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Ohio. These include the specific employer, the location within Ohio (larger cities may offer slightly higher wages), years of experience, and any additional responsibilities or supervisory roles. Benefits packages and shift differentials can also impact overall compensation, though the base hourly or annual wage is the primary driver.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Ohio
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $23,200 |
| 25th percentile | $26,800 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $28,430 |
| 75th percentile | $29,930 |
| 90th percentile | $34,920 |
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 Ohio 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 Ohio vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Ohio) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,430 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,283 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Ohio Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,430 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,283 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in Ohio
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $26,800 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $28,430 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $29,930 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $34,920 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in Ohio
How other high-demand occupations in Ohio compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($28,430 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in OH | $36,700 | +29.1% | $17.64/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in OH | $35,540 | +25.0% | $17.09/hr |
| Cashier in OH | $29,260 | +2.9% | $14.07/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in OH | $30,800 | +8.3% | $14.81/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in OH | $34,460 | +21.2% | $16.57/hr |
| Security Guard in OH | $35,770 | +25.8% | $17.20/hr |
| Receptionist in OH | $35,920 | +26.3% | $17.27/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in OH | $37,130 | +30.6% | $17.85/hr |
| Tutor in OH | $37,360 | +31.4% | $17.96/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in OH | $39,010 | +37.2% | $18.75/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in OH | $40,650 | +43.0% | $19.54/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in OH | $42,620 | +49.9% | $20.49/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a fast food worker in Ohio?
- The salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Ohio typically falls between $23,200 and $34,920 annually. This means that most workers in this role earn within this bracket, with the median sitting at $28,430 per year.
How does the average fast food salary in Ohio compare to the rest of the country?
- The average Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Ohio is 7.0% lower than the national average. This indicates that, on average, workers in this field in Ohio earn less than their counterparts across the United States.
What is the hourly wage for a fast food employee in Ohio?
- The hourly wage for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Ohio averages out to $14 per hour. Considering the annual median salary of $28,430, this hourly rate is a key indicator of earning potential for this profession.
How many people are employed as fast food workers in Ohio?
- There are approximately 163,560 individuals employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in Ohio. This substantial number highlights the widespread presence of this job category within the state's economy.