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Food Service · North Carolina

How to Become a Fast Food and Counter Workers in North Carolina

Fast Food and Counter Workers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $28,760/year, which is 6% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a fast food and counter workers takes home approximately $576/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$29K
Median salary in North Carolina
-6%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
85,120
Employed in North Carolina

What a fast food and counter workers can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$28,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$1,988/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home71% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$28,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$576/mo

Becoming a fast food and counter workers in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 85,120 fast food and counter workers. The highest concentrations are in Raleigh-Cary and Durham-Chapel Hill.

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Raleigh-Cary$30K$14.41/hr11,880
Durham-Chapel Hill$30K$14.22/hr4,980
Asheville$29K$14.06/hr4,410
Winston-Salem$29K$14/hr4,860
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$29K$13.98/hr24,400
Wilmington$29K$13.9/hr4,440
Greenville$28K$13.7/hr1,690
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$28K$13.65/hr2,530
Fayetteville$28K$13.65/hr2,910
Greensboro-High Point$28K$13.58/hr6,400
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$28K$13.54/hr820
Burlington$28K$13.52/hr1,460
Goldsboro$28K$13.29/hr870
Rocky Mount$27K$13.15/hr890
Jacksonville$27K$13.1/hr1,560

Fast Food and Counter Workers salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$21K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$29K
75th percentile
$34K
90th percentile (senior)
$37K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median fast food and counter workers salary in North Carolina is $28,760 per year ($13.83/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $30,480. Salaries range from $21,320 to $36,580.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $28,760, a fast food and counter workers in North Carolina would take home approximately $1,988/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 71% 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 North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for fast food and counter workers in North Carolina are Raleigh-Cary ($29,970), Durham-Chapel Hill ($29,580), Asheville ($29,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $28,760 salary, this means roughly $1,294/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.