Skip to content

Food Preparation Workers Salary in Tennessee

Food Preparation Workers in Tennessee earn a median of $28,700 a year, −19% compared with the U.S. median.

Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers

Median pay
$28,700
vs. U.S. median
−19% ($35,320)
Rank among states
44 of 51
Jobs in the state
19,780

Pay range in Tennessee

The lowest-paid 10% earn under $22,290; the top 10% earn over $39,660. Nationally the range is $25,810 to $45,340.

States ranked near Tennessee

All 51 states →

Similar jobs in Tennessee

Food Preparation Workers pay in Tennessee

How much do food preparation workers make in Tennessee?

The median is $28,700 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $22,290 and the top 10% earn over $39,660. BLS OEWS May 2025.

Is Tennessee a good state for food preparation workers?

On pay alone it ranks 44 of 51 (−19% vs. the national median of $35,320). Living costs are not included.

Keep exploring

Sources. Pay and employment: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 (national and state files). Pay is not adjusted for living costs. Data Sources & Licenses