Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · New Mexico

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

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in New Mexico earn a median salary of $34,240/year, which is 6% below the national average. New Mexico has a state income tax of ~2.0%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $994/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$34K
Median salary in New Mexico
-6%
vs. national average
2.0%
State income tax
3,650
Employed in New Mexico

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

Gross annual salary$34,240
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.0% state tax)$2,406/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Mexico)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home58.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,240/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$994/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in New Mexico

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

Many cooks, institution and cafeteria positions in New Mexico 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 Mexico licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New Mexico

New Mexico employs 3,650 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Santa Fe$37K$18.01/hr160
Albuquerque$35K$17.03/hr1,180
Las Cruces$33K$15.94/hr650
Farmington$30K$14.58/hr240

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in New Mexico

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$30K
Median (50th)
$34K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$42K
View jobs for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Currently hiring in New Mexico
View →
More openings for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Currently hiring in New Mexico
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full cooks, institution and cafeteria salary breakdown in New Mexico
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in New Mexico
After federal + 2.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare New Mexico cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in New Mexico is $34,240 per year ($16.46/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $27,550 to $41,600.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $34,240, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in New Mexico would take home approximately $2,406/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.7% 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 Mexico?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in New Mexico are Santa Fe ($37,460), Albuquerque ($35,430), Las Cruces ($33,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New Mexico has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.0%. On a $34,240 salary, this means roughly $683/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.