How to Become a Cooks, Restaurant in New Mexico
Cooks, Restaurants in New Mexico earn a median salary of $34,110/year, which is 7% below the national average. New Mexico has a state income tax of ~2.0%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, restaurant takes home approximately $985/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a cooks, restaurant can afford in New Mexico
Becoming a cooks, restaurant in New Mexico
Meet education requirements
Cooks, Restaurant positions in New Mexico typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New Mexico. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many cooks, restaurant positions in New Mexico require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New Mexico licensure or certification
New Mexico may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, restaurants. Requirements vary by state — contact the New Mexico Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New Mexico
New Mexico employs 8,730 cooks, restaurants. The highest concentrations are in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
Cooks, Restaurant salary by metro area in New Mexico
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe | $37K | $17.66/hr | 1,220 |
| Albuquerque | $34K | $16.52/hr | 3,930 |
| Farmington | $31K | $14.87/hr | 410 |
| Las Cruces | $30K | $14.53/hr | 800 |
Cooks, Restaurant salary range in New Mexico
Cooks, Restaurant careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, restaurant make in New Mexico?▼
The median cooks, restaurant salary in New Mexico is $34,110 per year ($16.4/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $36,830. Salaries range from $27,670 to $42,060.
What are the requirements to become a cooks, restaurant in New Mexico?▼
Cooks, Restaurant positions in New Mexico typically require No formal educational credential. New Mexico may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New Mexico licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a cooks, restaurant afford to live in New Mexico?▼
At the median salary of $34,110, a cooks, restaurant in New Mexico would take home approximately $2,397/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cooks, restaurants in New Mexico?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cooks, restaurants in New Mexico are Santa Fe ($36,730), Albuquerque ($34,360), Farmington ($30,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New Mexico have state income tax for cooks, restaurants?▼
Yes, New Mexico has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.0%. On a $34,110 salary, this means roughly $676/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.