Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in South Dakota
Based on 15K+ workers in South Dakota
Median Annual Salary (SD)
$29,490
$14.18/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
-3.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $36K
15K employed in South Dakota
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in South Dakota is $29,490 per year, or $14 per hour. This figure is 3.5% lower than the national average for this occupation. Currently, there are approximately 15,150 individuals employed in these roles across the state.
Several factors influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in South Dakota. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned employees often earning at the higher end of the spectrum. The specific employer, location within the state, and any additional responsibilities or specialized skills can also impact hourly wages and overall annual earnings.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in South Dakota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $27,880 |
| 25th percentile | $28,670 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $29,490 |
| 75th percentile | $31,480 |
| 90th percentile | $36,380 |
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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Dakota) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $29,490 |
| 2026 (projected) | $30,375 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Dakota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $29,490 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $30,375 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in South Dakota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $28,670 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $29,490 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $31,480 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $36,380 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in South Dakota
How other high-demand occupations in South Dakota compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($29,490 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in SD | $36,220 | +22.8% | $17.41/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in SD | $28,990 | -1.7% | $13.94/hr |
| Cashier in SD | $29,780 | +1.0% | $14.32/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in SD | $34,370 | +16.5% | $16.52/hr |
| Security Guard in SD | $37,150 | +26.0% | $17.86/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in SD | $37,650 | +27.7% | $18.10/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in SD | $37,740 | +28.0% | $18.14/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in SD | $37,860 | +28.4% | $18.20/hr |
| Receptionist in SD | $38,280 | +29.8% | $18.40/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in SD | $38,800 | +31.6% | $18.65/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in SD | $40,650 | +37.8% | $19.54/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in SD | $41,700 | +41.4% | $20.05/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in South Dakota?
- In South Dakota, Fast Food and Counter Workers can expect to earn between $27,880 and $36,380 annually. This range reflects variations in experience and employer compensation.
How does the median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
- The median salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers in South Dakota is $29,490 per year, which is 3.5% below the national average. This indicates slightly lower earning potential in the state compared to the rest of the country.
What is the hourly wage for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in South Dakota?
- The average hourly wage for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in South Dakota is $14. This aligns with the annual median salary of $29,490.
How many people are employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in South Dakota?
- There are approximately 15,150 individuals employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers in South Dakota. This number represents the current workforce in this sector within the state.