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Food Service · Illinois

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Illinois

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Illinois earn a median salary of $36,430/year, which is 0% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,047/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$36K
Median salary in Illinois
-0%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
22,850
Employed in Illinois

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$36,430
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$2,459/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home57.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,430/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,047/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 22,850 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Bloomington and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Bloomington$39K$18.61/hr590
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$38K$18.28/hr13,900
Champaign-Urbana$38K$18.1/hr560
Kankakee$36K$17.23/hr240
Peoria$35K$16.85/hr920
Decatur$35K$16.81/hr150
Springfield$34K$16.27/hr500
Rockford$32K$15.42/hr690

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$32K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$42K
90th percentile (senior)
$48K
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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 Illinois?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Illinois is $36,430 per year ($17.52/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $29,330 to $48,440.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $36,430, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Illinois would take home approximately $2,459/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 57.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Illinois are Bloomington ($38,700), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($38,010), Champaign-Urbana ($37,650). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $36,430 salary, this means roughly $1,803/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.