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Food Service · Maryland

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Maryland

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Maryland earn a median salary of $38,900/year, which is 7% above the national average. Maryland has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,223/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$39K
Median salary in Maryland
+7%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
3,730
Employed in Maryland

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Maryland

Gross annual salary$38,900
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$2,635/mo
Median 2BR rent (Maryland)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home53.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$38,900/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,223/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Maryland

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Maryland licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Maryland

Maryland employs 3,730 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Lexington Park and Baltimore-Columbia-Towson.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Maryland

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lexington Park$39K$18.93/hr80
Baltimore-Columbia-Towson$38K$18.42/hr1,880
Salisbury$38K$18.12/hr90
Hagerstown-Martinsburg$32K$15.2/hr440

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Maryland

10th percentile (entry)
$33K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$39K
75th percentile
$45K
90th percentile (senior)
$50K
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Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in Maryland
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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 Maryland?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Maryland is $38,900 per year ($18.7/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $33,390 to $49,600.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $38,900, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Maryland would take home approximately $2,635/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 53.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Maryland are Lexington Park ($39,380), Baltimore-Columbia-Towson ($38,320), Salisbury ($37,680). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Maryland has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $38,900 salary, this means roughly $1,674/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.