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Food Service · Massachusetts

How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Massachusetts

Food Preparation Workers in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $38,900/year, which is 10% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $1,253/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$39K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+10%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
13,620
Employed in Massachusetts

What a food preparation workers can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$38,900
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$2,612/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,359/mo
Rent as % of take-home52% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$38,900/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,253/mo

Becoming a food preparation workers in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 13,620 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Amherst Town-Northampton and Boston-Cambridge-Newton.

Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Amherst Town-Northampton$40K$19.3/hr510
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$40K$19.07/hr9,630
Barnstable Town$39K$18.59/hr670
Pittsfield$37K$17.76/hr310
Worcester$37K$17.57/hr1,390
Springfield$36K$17.32/hr810

Food Preparation Workers salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$39K
75th percentile
$45K
90th percentile (senior)
$48K
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Full food preparation workers salary breakdown in Massachusetts
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a food preparation workers make in Massachusetts?

The median food preparation workers salary in Massachusetts is $38,900 per year ($18.7/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $35,320. Salaries range from $34,280 to $48,420.

What are the requirements to become a food preparation workers in Massachusetts?

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

Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $38,900, a food preparation workers in Massachusetts would take home approximately $2,612/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,359/month, that's 52% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for food preparation workers in Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Massachusetts are Amherst Town-Northampton ($40,140), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($39,660), Barnstable Town ($38,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for food preparation workers?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $38,900 salary, this means roughly $1,945/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.