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Food Service · Kentucky

How to Become a Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kentucky

Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $27,170/year, which is 11% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a fast food and counter workers takes home approximately $487/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$27K
Median salary in Kentucky
-11%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
41,890
Employed in Kentucky

What a fast food and counter workers can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$27,170
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$1,899/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home74.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$27,170/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$487/mo

Becoming a fast food and counter workers in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Kentucky

Kentucky employs 41,890 fast food and counter workers. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Lexington-Fayette.

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$28K$13.63/hr15,970
Lexington-Fayette$28K$13.34/hr5,540
Paducah$28K$13.28/hr1,100
Bowling Green$28K$13.26/hr2,250
Elizabethtown$27K$12.98/hr1,420
Owensboro$26K$12.68/hr1,050

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$21K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$27K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$34K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median fast food and counter workers salary in Kentucky is $27,170 per year ($13.06/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $30,480. Salaries range from $21,380 to $34,080.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $27,170, a fast food and counter workers in Kentucky would take home approximately $1,899/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 74.4% 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 Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for fast food and counter workers in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($28,340), Lexington-Fayette ($27,740), Paducah ($27,620). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $27,170 salary, this means roughly $1,087/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.