Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 448,260 cooks, institution and cafeterias, and they earn a median of $36,450/year. The range runs from $27K to $48K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level cooks, institution and cafeterias start around $27K. The gap between that and the median ($36K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $48K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $48K | 10,210 |
| Hawaii | $47K | 1,270 |
| Alaska | $47K | 1,540 |
| Massachusetts | $46K | 7,510 |
| Connecticut | $46K | 3,630 |
| California | $46K | 27,320 |
| District of Columbia | $46K | 1,560 |
| Rhode Island | $45K | 940 |
| New Hampshire | $45K | 2,020 |
| New York | $45K | 16,980 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, institution and cafeteria make?▼
The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in the United States is $36,450 per year ($18/hour). Entry-level positions start around $26,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $48,320.
What education do you need to become a cooks, institution and cafeteria?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for cooks, institution and cafeterias?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for cooks, institution and cafeterias.
What are the highest paying states for cooks, institution and cafeterias?▼
The highest paying states for cooks, institution and cafeterias are Washington ($48,260), Hawaii ($47,250), Alaska ($46,900), Massachusetts ($46,280), Connecticut ($45,870). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.