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Food Service · New Jersey

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in New Jersey

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in New Jersey earn a median salary of $44,050/year, which is 21% above the national average. New Jersey has a state income tax of ~2.1%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,629/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$44K
Median salary in New Jersey
+21%
vs. national average
2.1%
State income tax
7,290
Employed in New Jersey

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in New Jersey

Gross annual salary$44,050
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.1% state tax)$3,041/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Jersey)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home46.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$44,050/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,629/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in New Jersey

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New Jersey licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New Jersey

New Jersey employs 7,290 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Trenton-Princeton and Vineland.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in New Jersey

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Trenton-Princeton$44K$20.92/hr490
Vineland$42K$19.99/hr130
Atlantic City-Hammonton$42K$19.98/hr320

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in New Jersey

10th percentile (entry)
$35K
25th percentile
$38K
Median (50th)
$44K
75th percentile
$47K
90th percentile (senior)
$54K
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Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in New Jersey
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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 New Jersey?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in New Jersey is $44,050 per year ($21.18/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $34,850 to $54,190.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $44,050, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in New Jersey would take home approximately $3,041/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in New Jersey are Trenton-Princeton ($43,500), Vineland ($41,580), Atlantic City-Hammonton ($41,550). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.1%. On a $44,050 salary, this means roughly $941/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.