How to Become a Cooks, Restaurant in Missouri
Cooks, Restaurants in Missouri earn a median salary of $35,320/year, which is 4% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, restaurant takes home approximately $1,049/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a cooks, restaurant can afford in Missouri
Becoming a cooks, restaurant in Missouri
Meet education requirements
Cooks, Restaurant positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Missouri. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many cooks, restaurant positions in Missouri require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Missouri licensure or certification
Missouri may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, restaurants. Requirements vary by state — contact the Missouri Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Missouri
Missouri employs 28,390 cooks, restaurants. The highest concentrations are in Kansas City and St. Louis.
Cooks, Restaurant salary by metro area in Missouri
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $37K | $17.77/hr | 10,440 |
| St. Louis | $36K | $17.53/hr | 13,910 |
| Columbia | $34K | $16.27/hr | 1,200 |
| St. Joseph | $33K | $15.71/hr | 430 |
| Springfield | $30K | $14.57/hr | 2,280 |
| Jefferson City | $30K | $14.33/hr | 580 |
| Joplin | $29K | $14.1/hr | 860 |
| Cape Girardeau | $29K | $14.09/hr | 490 |
Cooks, Restaurant salary range in Missouri
Cooks, Restaurant careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, restaurant make in Missouri?▼
The median cooks, restaurant salary in Missouri is $35,320 per year ($16.98/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $36,830. Salaries range from $26,980 to $45,250.
What are the requirements to become a cooks, restaurant in Missouri?▼
Cooks, Restaurant positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Missouri may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Missouri licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a cooks, restaurant afford to live in Missouri?▼
At the median salary of $35,320, a cooks, restaurant in Missouri would take home approximately $2,461/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 57.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cooks, restaurants in Missouri?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cooks, restaurants in Missouri are Kansas City ($36,970), St. Louis ($36,450), Columbia ($33,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Missouri have state income tax for cooks, restaurants?▼
Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $35,320 salary, this means roughly $882/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.