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Food Service · Washington

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Washington

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Washington earn a median salary of $48,260/year, which is 32% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,989/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$48K
Median salary in Washington
+32%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
10,210
Employed in Washington

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Washington

Gross annual salary$48,260
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$3,401/mo
Median 2BR rent (Washington)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home41.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$48,260/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,989/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Washington

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Washington licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Washington

Washington employs 10,210 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Washington

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue$50K$24.18/hr5,740
Mount Vernon-Anacortes$50K$23.97/hr180
Bellingham$48K$23.1/hr250
Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard$48K$23.08/hr250
Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater$48K$22.93/hr270
Walla Walla$46K$22.09/hr90
Yakima$46K$22.06/hr420
Kennewick-Richland$45K$21.76/hr360
Longview-Kelso$44K$21.27/hr130
Wenatchee-East Wenatchee$44K$21.16/hr170
Spokane-Spokane Valley$44K$21.08/hr840

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Washington

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$44K
Median (50th)
$48K
75th percentile
$56K
90th percentile (senior)
$62K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Washington is $48,260 per year ($23.2/hr). This is 32% above the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $39,400 to $61,510.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $48,260, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Washington would take home approximately $3,401/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($50,290), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($49,850), Bellingham ($48,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means cooks, institution and cafeterias keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.