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Food Service · Wisconsin

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Wisconsin

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $37,840/year, which is 4% above the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~2.6%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $1,210/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$38K
Median salary in Wisconsin
+4%
vs. national average
2.6%
State income tax
9,680
Employed in Wisconsin

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Wisconsin

Gross annual salary$37,840
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.6% state tax)$2,622/mo
Median 2BR rent (Wisconsin)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home53.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$37,840/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,210/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Wisconsin

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Wisconsin

Wisconsin employs 9,680 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in Madison and Oshkosh-Neenah.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Wisconsin

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Madison$40K$19.39/hr990
Oshkosh-Neenah$39K$18.85/hr240
Wausau$38K$18.42/hr150
Milwaukee-Waukesha$38K$18.21/hr2,550
Janesville-Beloit$38K$18.18/hr230
Racine-Mount Pleasant$38K$18.16/hr240
Eau Claire$38K$18.07/hr310
Green Bay$38K$18.03/hr430
La Crosse-Onalaska$37K$17.89/hr280
Kenosha$37K$17.86/hr270
Fond du Lac$37K$17.62/hr170
Sheboygan$37K$17.59/hr200
Appleton$37K$17.59/hr340

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Wisconsin

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$38K
75th percentile
$44K
90th percentile (senior)
$47K
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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 Wisconsin?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Wisconsin is $37,840 per year ($18.19/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $31,000 to $47,000.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $37,840, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Wisconsin would take home approximately $2,622/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 53.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Wisconsin are Madison ($40,330), Oshkosh-Neenah ($39,210), Wausau ($38,320). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.6%. On a $37,840 salary, this means roughly $985/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.