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Food Service · Mississippi

How to Become a Chefs and Head Cooks in Mississippi

Chefs and Head Cooks in Mississippi earn a median salary of $44,990/year, which is 26% below the national average. Mississippi has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a chefs and head cooks takes home approximately $1,594/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$45K
Median salary in Mississippi
-26%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
950
Employed in Mississippi

What a chefs and head cooks can afford in Mississippi

Gross annual salary$44,990
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$3,006/mo
Median 2BR rent (Mississippi)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home47% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$44,990/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,594/mo

Becoming a chefs and head cooks in Mississippi

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Mississippi licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Mississippi

Mississippi employs 950 chefs and head cooks. The highest concentrations are in Gulfport-Biloxi and Jackson.

Chefs and Head Cooks salary by metro area in Mississippi

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Gulfport-Biloxi$50K$24.07/hr260
Jackson$40K$19.2/hr160
Hattiesburg$36K$17.49/hr40

Chefs and Head Cooks salary range in Mississippi

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$45K
75th percentile
$65K
90th percentile (senior)
$80K
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Full chefs and head cooks salary breakdown in Mississippi
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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 Mississippi?

The median chefs and head cooks salary in Mississippi is $44,990 per year ($21.63/hr). This is 26% below the national median of $60,990. Salaries range from $28,580 to $80,420.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $44,990, a chefs and head cooks in Mississippi would take home approximately $3,006/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 47% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for chefs and head cooks in Mississippi are Gulfport-Biloxi ($50,060), Jackson ($39,930), Hattiesburg ($36,380). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Mississippi has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $44,990 salary, this means roughly $2,115/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.