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Food Service · Mississippi

How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Mississippi

Food Preparation Workers in Mississippi earn a median salary of $23,190/year, which is 32% below the national average. Mississippi has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $214/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$23K
Median salary in Mississippi
-32%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
7,490
Employed in Mississippi

What a food preparation workers can afford in Mississippi

Gross annual salary$23,190
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$1,626/mo
Median 2BR rent (Mississippi)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home86.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$23,190/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$214/mo

Becoming a food preparation workers in Mississippi

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Mississippi licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Mississippi

Mississippi employs 7,490 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Hattiesburg and Jackson.

Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Mississippi

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Hattiesburg$27K$13.03/hr520
Jackson$27K$12.84/hr1,250
Gulfport-Biloxi$24K$11.34/hr1,440

Food Preparation Workers salary range in Mississippi

10th percentile (entry)
$18K
25th percentile
$20K
Median (50th)
$23K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$35K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a food preparation workers make in Mississippi?

The median food preparation workers salary in Mississippi is $23,190 per year ($11.15/hr). This is 32% below the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $17,990 to $34,640.

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

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

Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Mississippi?

At the median salary of $23,190, a food preparation workers in Mississippi would take home approximately $1,626/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 86.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Mississippi are Hattiesburg ($27,100), Jackson ($26,700), Gulfport-Biloxi ($23,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Mississippi have state income tax for food preparation workers?

Yes, Mississippi has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $23,190 salary, this means roughly $1,090/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.