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Food Service · Alabama

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Alabama

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Alabama earn a median salary of $27,120/year, which is 28% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately -$925/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$27K
Median salary in Alabama
-28%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
8,780
Employed in Alabama

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Alabama

Gross annual salary$27,120
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$1,887/mo
Median 2BR rent (Alabama)-$2,812/mo
Rent as % of take-home149% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$27,120/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent-$925/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Alabama

1

Meet education requirements

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Alabama typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Alabama licensure or certification

Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, institution and cafeterias. Requirements vary by state, contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Alabama

Alabama employs 8,780 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Tuscaloosa and Auburn-Opelika.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Alabama

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Tuscaloosa$32K$15.24/hr470
Auburn-Opelika$30K$14.27/hr260
Mobile$29K$13.74/hr630
Huntsville$28K$13.51/hr800
Dothan$28K$13.39/hr180
Daphne-Fairhope-Foley$27K$13.11/hr320
Birmingham$27K$13.09/hr2,460
Florence-Muscle Shoals$27K$13.08/hr240
Anniston-Oxford$24K$11.52/hr210
Decatur$24K$11.37/hr220
Montgomery$23K$11.1/hr750
Gadsden$22K$10.81/hr190

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Alabama

10th percentile (entry)
$20K
25th percentile
$22K
Median (50th)
$27K
75th percentile
$33K
90th percentile (senior)
$38K
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Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in Alabama
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Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a cooks, institution and cafeteria make in Alabama?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Alabama is $27,120 per year ($13.04/hr). This is 28% below the national median of $37,450. Salaries range from $20,040 to $37,960.

What are the requirements to become a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Alabama?

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Alabama typically require No formal educational credential. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a cooks, institution and cafeteria afford to live in Alabama?

At the median salary of $27,120, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Alabama would take home approximately $1,887/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,812/month, that's 149% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Alabama?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Alabama are Tuscaloosa ($31,700), Auburn-Opelika ($29,680), Mobile ($28,580). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Alabama have state income tax for cooks, institution and cafeterias?

Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $27,120 salary, this means roughly $1,191/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.