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Food Service · West Virginia

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in West Virginia

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in West Virginia earn a median salary of $28,790/year, which is 21% below the national average. West Virginia has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $615/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$29K
Median salary in West Virginia
-21%
vs. national average
2.9%
State income tax
4,540
Employed in West Virginia

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in West Virginia

Gross annual salary$28,790
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.9% state tax)$2,027/mo
Median 2BR rent (West Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home69.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$28,790/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$615/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in West Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

Many cooks, institution and cafeteria positions in West 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 West Virginia licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in West Virginia

West Virginia employs 4,540 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Morgantown and Wheeling.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in West Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Morgantown$30K$14.31/hr330
Wheeling$29K$14/hr300
Weirton-Steubenville$29K$13.94/hr260
Charleston$29K$13.75/hr700
Huntington-Ashland$29K$13.74/hr1,010
Parkersburg-Vienna$29K$13.71/hr180
Beckley$28K$13.5/hr240

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in West Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$27K
Median (50th)
$29K
75th percentile
$34K
90th percentile (senior)
$39K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in West Virginia is $28,790 per year ($13.84/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $23,000 to $38,800.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $28,790, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in West Virginia would take home approximately $2,027/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 69.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in West Virginia are Morgantown ($29,750), Wheeling ($29,110), Weirton-Steubenville ($28,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, West Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $28,790 salary, this means roughly $843/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.