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Food Service · Minnesota

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Minnesota

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Minnesota earn a median salary of $42,180/year, which is 16% above the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,459/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$42K
Median salary in Minnesota
+16%
vs. national average
3.5%
State income tax
7,650
Employed in Minnesota

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$42,180
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.5% state tax)$2,871/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home49.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$42,180/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,459/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 7,650 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Rochester.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$43K$20.77/hr4,620
Rochester$40K$19.1/hr330
St. Cloud$39K$18.9/hr270
Mankato$39K$18.85/hr170
Duluth$39K$18.52/hr470

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$35K
25th percentile
$38K
Median (50th)
$42K
75th percentile
$46K
90th percentile (senior)
$51K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Minnesota is $42,180 per year ($20.28/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $35,310 to $50,860.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $42,180, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Minnesota would take home approximately $2,871/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 49.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($43,200), Rochester ($39,730), St. Cloud ($39,310). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $42,180 salary, this means roughly $1,477/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.