Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Washington
Based on 95K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$37,710
$18.13/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
+23.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$35K – $48K
95K employed in Washington
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Washington is $37,710 per year, or $18 per hour. This is 23.4% higher than the national average, indicating a strong market for these positions within the state. With 94,710 individuals currently employed in this field, Washington offers a significant number of opportunities.
Several factors influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Washington. These include the specific employer, the geographic location within the state (urban areas often pay more), years of experience, and any additional responsibilities or supervisory roles. Entry-level positions will generally fall at the lower end of the salary range.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,050 |
| 25th percentile | $35,880 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,710 |
| 75th percentile | $44,240 |
| 90th percentile | $47,860 |
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 Washington 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 Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,710 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,841 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,710 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,841 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,880 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,710 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $44,240 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $47,860 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($37,710 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in WA | $56,130 | +48.8% | $26.99/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in WA | $46,800 | +24.1% | $22.50/hr |
| Cashier in WA | $38,720 | +2.7% | $18.62/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WA | $39,560 | +4.9% | $19.02/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WA | $44,620 | +18.3% | $21.45/hr |
| Receptionist in WA | $44,710 | +18.6% | $21.50/hr |
| Security Guard in WA | $47,100 | +24.9% | $22.64/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WA | $47,730 | +26.6% | $22.95/hr |
| Tutor in WA | $48,020 | +27.3% | $23.09/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WA | $49,180 | +30.4% | $23.64/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in WA | $50,330 | +33.5% | $24.20/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in WA | $57,270 | +51.9% | $27.53/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Washington?
- In Washington, the salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker typically falls between $35,050 and $47,860 annually. The median salary sits at $37,710 per year, reflecting a strong earning potential compared to national averages.
How much do Fast Food and Counter Workers earn per hour in Washington?
- Fast Food and Counter Workers in Washington can expect to earn approximately $18 per hour on average. This hourly rate corresponds to the yearly median salary of $37,710, making it a competitive hourly wage.
Is the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Washington higher than the national average?
- Yes, the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Washington is significantly higher than the national average. It stands at 23.4% above the national median, meaning workers in Washington are earning more for comparable roles.
What is the total number of employed Fast Food and Counter Workers in Washington?
- There are a substantial 94,710 individuals employed as Fast Food and Counter Workers across Washington state. This large number indicates a robust job market for this profession within the state.