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Food Service · Illinois

How to Become a Fast Food and Counter Workers in Illinois

Fast Food and Counter Workers in Illinois earn a median salary of $33,910/year, which is 9% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a fast food and counter workers takes home approximately $1,041/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$34K
Median salary in Illinois
+9%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
127,590
Employed in Illinois

What a fast food and counter workers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$33,910
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$2,301/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,260/mo
Rent as % of take-home54.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$33,910/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,041/mo

Becoming a fast food and counter workers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Fast Food and Counter Workers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many fast food and counter workers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for fast food and counter workerss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 127,590 fast food and counter workers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$35K$16.65/hr97,280
Rockford$32K$15.21/hr3,630
Springfield$31K$15.07/hr1,760
Champaign-Urbana$31K$15.05/hr2,890
Kankakee$31K$15.01/hr1,220
Peoria$31K$15/hr3,260
Bloomington$31K$15/hr2,430
Decatur$31K$15/hr970

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$34K
75th percentile
$36K
90th percentile (senior)
$37K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a fast food and counter workers make in Illinois?

The median fast food and counter workers salary in Illinois is $33,910 per year ($16.3/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $31,200. Salaries range from $31,200 to $37,330.

What are the requirements to become a fast food and counter workers in Illinois?

Fast Food and Counter Workers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a fast food and counter workers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $33,910, a fast food and counter workers in Illinois would take home approximately $2,301/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,260/month, that's 54.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for fast food and counter workers in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for fast food and counter workers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($34,630), Rockford ($31,640), Springfield ($31,350). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for fast food and counter workers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $33,910 salary, this means roughly $1,679/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.