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Food Service · Virginia

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Virginia

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Virginia earn a median salary of $37,890/year, which is 1% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $639/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$38K
Median salary in Virginia
+1%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
11,170
Employed in Virginia

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$37,890
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$2,569/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,930/mo
Rent as % of take-home75.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$37,890/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$639/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia employs 11,170 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlottesville$39K$18.52/hr450
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$38K$18.48/hr2,510
Harrisonburg$38K$18.22/hr200
Richmond$37K$17.86/hr1,550
Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford$37K$17.8/hr300
Staunton-Stuarts Draft$36K$17.4/hr170
Roanoke$36K$17.15/hr450
Winchester$35K$17/hr230
Lynchburg$35K$16.89/hr550

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$38K
75th percentile
$44K
90th percentile (senior)
$48K
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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 Virginia?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Virginia is $37,890 per year ($18.22/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $37,450. Salaries range from $30,000 to $47,940.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $37,890, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Virginia would take home approximately $2,569/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,930/month, that's 75.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Virginia are Charlottesville ($38,510), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($38,440), Harrisonburg ($37,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $37,890 salary, this means roughly $1,662/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.