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Food Service · South Carolina

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in South Carolina

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in South Carolina earn a median salary of $31,730/year, which is 13% below the national average. South Carolina has a state income tax of ~1.3%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $848/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$32K
Median salary in South Carolina
-13%
vs. national average
1.3%
State income tax
7,560
Employed in South Carolina

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in South Carolina

Gross annual salary$31,730
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.3% state tax)$2,260/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home62.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$31,730/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$848/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in South Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain South Carolina licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in South Carolina

South Carolina employs 7,560 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal and Charleston-North Charleston.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in South Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal$37K$17.85/hr320
Charleston-North Charleston$36K$17.07/hr1,030
Columbia$34K$16.38/hr1,160
Greenville-Anderson-Greer$34K$16.24/hr1,630
Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach$33K$15.78/hr330
Spartanburg$31K$14.9/hr450
Florence$29K$14.05/hr330
Sumter$26K$12.7/hr150

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in South Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$20K
25th percentile
$27K
Median (50th)
$32K
75th percentile
$36K
90th percentile (senior)
$41K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in South Carolina is $31,730 per year ($15.26/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $20,370 to $41,090.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $31,730, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in South Carolina would take home approximately $2,260/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 62.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in South Carolina are Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal ($37,120), Charleston-North Charleston ($35,510), Columbia ($34,070). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, South Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.3%. On a $31,730 salary, this means roughly $410/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.