How to Become a Cooks, Restaurant in Iowa
Cooks, Restaurants in Iowa earn a median salary of $35,720/year, which is 3% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, restaurant takes home approximately $1,015/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a cooks, restaurant can afford in Iowa
Becoming a cooks, restaurant in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Cooks, Restaurant positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many cooks, restaurant positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, restaurants. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 13,310 cooks, restaurants. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Ames.
Cooks, Restaurant salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $36K | $17.52/hr | 3,650 |
| Ames | $36K | $17.46/hr | 640 |
| Sioux City | $36K | $17.32/hr | 580 |
| Iowa City | $36K | $17.25/hr | 1,100 |
| Cedar Rapids | $36K | $17.2/hr | 1,280 |
| Dubuque | $36K | $17.19/hr | 440 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $35K | $16.91/hr | 780 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $35K | $16.66/hr | 1,810 |
Cooks, Restaurant salary range in Iowa
Cooks, Restaurant careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, restaurant make in Iowa?▼
The median cooks, restaurant salary in Iowa is $35,720 per year ($17.18/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $36,830. Salaries range from $24,270 to $47,420.
What are the requirements to become a cooks, restaurant in Iowa?▼
Cooks, Restaurant positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a cooks, restaurant afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $35,720, a cooks, restaurant in Iowa would take home approximately $2,427/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 Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cooks, restaurants in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($36,430), Ames ($36,310), Sioux City ($36,020). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for cooks, restaurants?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $35,720 salary, this means roughly $1,611/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.