Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · Idaho

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Idaho

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Idaho earn a median salary of $33,880/year, which is 7% below the national average. Idaho has a state income tax of ~2.7%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $951/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$34K
Median salary in Idaho
-7%
vs. national average
2.7%
State income tax
3,950
Employed in Idaho

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Idaho

Gross annual salary$33,880
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.7% state tax)$2,363/mo
Median 2BR rent (Idaho)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home59.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$33,880/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$951/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Idaho

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Idaho licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Idaho

Idaho employs 3,950 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Lewiston and Coeur d'Alene.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Idaho

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lewiston$37K$17.63/hr140
Coeur d'Alene$36K$17.36/hr350
Boise City$34K$16.48/hr1,520
Twin Falls$32K$15.59/hr260
Pocatello$32K$15.24/hr160
Idaho Falls$31K$14.99/hr360

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Idaho

10th percentile (entry)
$26K
25th percentile
$29K
Median (50th)
$34K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
View jobs for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Currently hiring in Idaho
View →
More openings for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Currently hiring in Idaho
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in Idaho
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Idaho
After federal + 2.7% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Idaho cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Idaho is $33,880 per year ($16.29/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $26,320 to $43,820.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $33,880, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Idaho would take home approximately $2,363/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 59.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Idaho are Lewiston ($36,660), Coeur d'Alene ($36,100), Boise City ($34,290). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Idaho has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.7%. On a $33,880 salary, this means roughly $902/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.