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Food Service · Minnesota

How to Become a Chefs and Head Cooks in Minnesota

Chefs and Head Cooks in Minnesota earn a median salary of $59,430/year, which is 3% below the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a chefs and head cooks takes home approximately $2,519/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$59K
Median salary in Minnesota
-3%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
1,630
Employed in Minnesota

What a chefs and head cooks can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$59,430
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$3,931/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,430/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,519/mo

Becoming a chefs and head cooks in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

Chefs and Head Cooks positions in Minnesota typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Minnesota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many chefs and head cooks positions in Minnesota require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

Minnesota may require specific licensing or professional certification for chefs and head cookss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Minnesota Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 1,630 chefs and head cooks. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Rochester.

Chefs and Head Cooks salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$62K$29.7/hr1,210
Rochester$59K$28.55/hr80
Duluth$51K$24.28/hr90
Mankato$49K$23.71/hr30
St. Cloud$45K$21.72/hr40

Chefs and Head Cooks salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$48K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$75K
90th percentile (senior)
$92K
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Full chefs and head cooks salary breakdown in Minnesota
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Chefs and Head Cooks careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a chefs and head cooks make in Minnesota?

The median chefs and head cooks salary in Minnesota is $59,430 per year ($28.57/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $60,990. Salaries range from $46,220 to $91,820.

What are the requirements to become a chefs and head cooks in Minnesota?

Chefs and Head Cooks positions in Minnesota typically require No formal educational credential. Minnesota may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Minnesota licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a chefs and head cooks afford to live in Minnesota?

At the median salary of $59,430, a chefs and head cooks in Minnesota would take home approximately $3,931/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for chefs and head cooks in Minnesota?

The highest paying metro areas for chefs and head cooks in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($61,780), Rochester ($59,390), Duluth ($50,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Minnesota have state income tax for chefs and head cooks?

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $59,430 salary, this means roughly $2,614/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.