How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in North Carolina
Food Preparation Workers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $29,410/year, which is 14% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $617/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a food preparation workers can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a food preparation workers in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Food Preparation 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.
Gain required experience
Many food preparation 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.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for food preparation workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 24,420 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Asheville and Wilmington.
Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville | $33K | $15.96/hr | 1,350 |
| Wilmington | $32K | $15.27/hr | 1,240 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $31K | $15.06/hr | 1,130 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $31K | $14.7/hr | 5,470 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $30K | $14.35/hr | 1,540 |
| Winston-Salem | $29K | $13.72/hr | 1,090 |
| Burlington | $28K | $13.64/hr | 370 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $28K | $13.5/hr | 280 |
| Greenville | $28K | $13.47/hr | 360 |
| Jacksonville | $28K | $13.46/hr | 240 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $28K | $13.41/hr | 6,030 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $28K | $13.36/hr | 700 |
| Rocky Mount | $28K | $13.33/hr | 220 |
| Goldsboro | $27K | $12.99/hr | 180 |
| Fayetteville | $27K | $12.84/hr | 960 |
Food Preparation Workers salary range in North Carolina
Food Preparation Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food preparation workers make in North Carolina?▼
The median food preparation workers salary in North Carolina is $29,410 per year ($14.14/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $21,910 to $37,010.
What are the requirements to become a food preparation workers in North Carolina?▼
Food Preparation 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 food preparation workers afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $29,410, a food preparation workers in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,029/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 69.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for food preparation workers in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in North Carolina are Asheville ($33,190), Wilmington ($31,750), Durham-Chapel Hill ($31,330). 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 food preparation workers?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $29,410 salary, this means roughly $1,323/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.