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Food Service · Oregon

How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Oregon

Food Preparation Workers in Oregon earn a median salary of $36,390/year, which is 6% above the national average. Oregon has a state income tax of ~7.3%. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $973/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$36K
Median salary in Oregon
+6%
vs. national average
7.3%
State income tax
13,890
Employed in Oregon

What a food preparation workers can afford in Oregon

Gross annual salary$36,390
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 7.3% state tax)$2,385/mo
Median 2BR rent (Oregon)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home59.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,390/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$973/mo

Becoming a food preparation workers in Oregon

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Oregon licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Oregon

Oregon employs 13,890 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro and Bend.

Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Oregon

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro$37K$17.92/hr7,720
Bend$36K$17.42/hr850
Salem$36K$17.36/hr1,210
Albany$36K$17.21/hr340
Grants Pass$36K$17.13/hr270
Medford$35K$16.98/hr680
Corvallis$35K$16.97/hr340
Eugene-Springfield$35K$16.93/hr1,150

Food Preparation Workers salary range in Oregon

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$34K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$39K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a food preparation workers make in Oregon?

The median food preparation workers salary in Oregon is $36,390 per year ($17.5/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $30,520 to $44,290.

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

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

Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Oregon?

At the median salary of $36,390, a food preparation workers in Oregon would take home approximately $2,385/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 59.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Oregon are Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro ($37,270), Bend ($36,230), Salem ($36,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Oregon have state income tax for food preparation workers?

Yes, Oregon has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.3%. On a $36,390 salary, this means roughly $2,659/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.