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Food Service · Idaho

How to Become a Cooks, Restaurant in Idaho

Cooks, Restaurants in Idaho earn a median salary of $34,890/year, which is 5% below the national average. Idaho has a state income tax of ~2.8%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, restaurant takes home approximately $1,014/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$35K
Median salary in Idaho
-5%
vs. national average
2.8%
State income tax
8,290
Employed in Idaho

What a cooks, restaurant can afford in Idaho

Gross annual salary$34,890
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.8% state tax)$2,426/mo
Median 2BR rent (Idaho)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home58.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,890/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,014/mo

Becoming a cooks, restaurant in Idaho

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Idaho licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Idaho

Idaho employs 8,290 cooks, restaurants. The highest concentrations are in Coeur d'Alene and Lewiston.

Cooks, Restaurant salary by metro area in Idaho

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Coeur d'Alene$36K$17.51/hr1,080
Lewiston$35K$16.97/hr250
Boise City$35K$16.96/hr3,620
Idaho Falls$34K$16.5/hr660
Twin Falls$33K$15.98/hr490
Pocatello$31K$14.7/hr370

Cooks, Restaurant salary range in Idaho

10th percentile (entry)
$21K
25th percentile
$28K
Median (50th)
$35K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$45K
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Full cooks, restaurant salary breakdown in Idaho
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a cooks, restaurant make in Idaho?

The median cooks, restaurant salary in Idaho is $34,890 per year ($16.77/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $36,830. Salaries range from $20,580 to $44,980.

What are the requirements to become a cooks, restaurant in Idaho?

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

Can a cooks, restaurant afford to live in Idaho?

At the median salary of $34,890, a cooks, restaurant in Idaho would take home approximately $2,426/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for cooks, restaurants in Idaho?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, restaurants in Idaho are Coeur d'Alene ($36,410), Lewiston ($35,300), Boise City ($35,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Idaho have state income tax for cooks, restaurants?

Yes, Idaho has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.8%. On a $34,890 salary, this means roughly $961/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.