How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Florida
Food Preparation Workers in Florida earn a median salary of $35,190/year, which is 3% above the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $1,114/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a food preparation workers can afford in Florida
Becoming a food preparation workers in Florida
Meet education requirements
Food Preparation Workers positions in Florida typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many food preparation workers positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for food preparation workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 67,030 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and Cape Coral-Fort Myers.
Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $37K | $17.78/hr | 1,560 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $36K | $17.48/hr | 2,310 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $36K | $17.31/hr | 3,460 |
| Jacksonville | $36K | $17.13/hr | 4,140 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $36K | $17.12/hr | 1,100 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $36K | $17.12/hr | 9,730 |
| Port St. Lucie | $36K | $17.07/hr | 1,550 |
| Punta Gorda | $35K | $17.05/hr | 680 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $35K | $17/hr | 420 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $35K | $16.89/hr | 570 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $35K | $16.77/hr | 2,110 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $35K | $16.74/hr | 17,520 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $34K | $16.47/hr | 610 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $34K | $16.35/hr | 10,000 |
| Gainesville | $34K | $16.28/hr | 1,130 |
Food Preparation Workers salary range in Florida
Food Preparation Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food preparation workers make in Florida?▼
The median food preparation workers salary in Florida is $35,190 per year ($16.92/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $27,690 to $41,580.
What are the requirements to become a food preparation workers in Florida?▼
Food Preparation Workers positions in Florida typically require No formal educational credential. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $35,190, a food preparation workers in Florida would take home approximately $2,526/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for food preparation workers in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($36,980), Cape Coral-Fort Myers ($36,350), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($36,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for food preparation workers?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means food preparation workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.