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Food Service · Georgia

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Georgia

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Georgia earn a median salary of $34,960/year, which is 4% below the national average. Georgia has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $976/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$35K
Median salary in Georgia
-4%
vs. national average
4.2%
State income tax
7,440
Employed in Georgia

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Georgia

Gross annual salary$34,960
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.2% state tax)$2,388/mo
Median 2BR rent (Georgia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home59.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,960/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$976/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Georgia

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Georgia licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Georgia

Georgia employs 7,440 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell and Gainesville.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Georgia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell$37K$17.78/hr3,810
Gainesville$37K$17.76/hr170
Brunswick-St. Simons$35K$16.86/hr80
Savannah$34K$16.37/hr270
Hinesville$31K$15.03/hr30
Augusta-Richmond County$31K$14.87/hr480
Dalton$31K$14.74/hr50
Macon-Bibb County$30K$14.45/hr240
Athens-Clarke County$30K$14.44/hr150
Rome$30K$14.42/hr100
Columbus$29K$14.15/hr370
Albany$29K$14.15/hr100
Warner Robins$29K$14.12/hr100
Valdosta$28K$13.64/hr110

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Georgia

10th percentile (entry)
$27K
25th percentile
$29K
Median (50th)
$35K
75th percentile
$39K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in Georgia
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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 Georgia?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Georgia is $34,960 per year ($16.81/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $26,570 to $43,930.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $34,960, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Georgia would take home approximately $2,388/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 59.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Georgia are Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell ($36,980), Gainesville ($36,950), Brunswick-St. Simons ($35,060). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Georgia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $34,960 salary, this means roughly $1,469/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.