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Food Service · Michigan

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Michigan

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Michigan earn a median salary of $35,870/year, which is 2% below the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,033/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$36K
Median salary in Michigan
-2%
vs. national average
4.2%
State income tax
13,650
Employed in Michigan

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Michigan

Gross annual salary$35,870
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.2% state tax)$2,445/mo
Median 2BR rent (Michigan)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home57.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,870/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,033/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Michigan

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Michigan licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Michigan

Michigan employs 13,650 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Ann Arbor and Traverse City.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Michigan

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Ann Arbor$40K$19.39/hr700
Traverse City$37K$18.02/hr260
Jackson$37K$17.99/hr280
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood$37K$17.97/hr1,550
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn$36K$17.5/hr4,990
Kalamazoo-Portage$36K$17.37/hr450
Battle Creek$36K$17.25/hr250
Lansing-East Lansing$36K$17.2/hr680
Niles$36K$17.19/hr210
Midland$36K$17.16/hr140
Monroe$36K$17.12/hr120
Saginaw$35K$16.89/hr240
Bay City$34K$16.49/hr120
Muskegon-Norton Shores$34K$16.25/hr170
Flint$31K$14.73/hr560

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Michigan

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$32K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$38K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in Michigan
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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 Michigan?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Michigan is $35,870 per year ($17.25/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $28,890 to $43,690.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $35,870, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Michigan would take home approximately $2,445/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 57.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Michigan are Ann Arbor ($40,330), Traverse City ($37,490), Jackson ($37,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $35,870 salary, this means roughly $1,524/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.