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Food Service · Colorado

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Colorado

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Colorado earn a median salary of $42,500/year, which is 13% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,245/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$43K
Median salary in Colorado
+13%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
9,440
Employed in Colorado

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$42,500
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$2,860/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,615/mo
Rent as % of take-home56.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$42,500/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,245/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 9,440 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Denver-Aurora-Centennial.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boulder$48K$23.09/hr820
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$45K$21.67/hr4,410
Greeley$43K$20.65/hr420
Fort Collins-Loveland$40K$19.12/hr670
Grand Junction$39K$18.82/hr260
Colorado Springs$39K$18.8/hr1,090
Pueblo$39K$18.54/hr380

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$36K
25th percentile
$38K
Median (50th)
$43K
75th percentile
$48K
90th percentile (senior)
$51K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Colorado is $42,500 per year ($20.43/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $37,450. Salaries range from $36,290 to $50,990.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $42,500, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Colorado would take home approximately $2,860/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,615/month, that's 56.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Colorado are Boulder ($48,020), Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($45,070), Greeley ($42,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $42,500 salary, this means roughly $1,870/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.