Food Preparation Workers Salary in California
Food Preparation Workers in California earn a median of $39,350 a year, +11% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $39,350
- vs. U.S. median
- +11% ($35,320)
- Rank among states
- 3 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 112,750
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,190; the top 10% earn over $48,470. Nationally the range is $25,810 to $45,340.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
Food Preparation Workers pay in California
How much do food preparation workers make in California?
The median is $39,350 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,190 and the top 10% earn over $48,470. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for food preparation workers?
On pay alone it ranks 3 of 51 (+11% vs. the national median of $35,320). Living costs are not included.