How to Become a Cooks, Restaurant in Wisconsin
Cooks, Restaurants in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $36,940/year, which is 0% above the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~2.6%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, restaurant takes home approximately $1,153/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a cooks, restaurant can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a cooks, restaurant in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Cooks, Restaurant 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.
Gain required experience
Many cooks, restaurant 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.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, restaurants. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 24,360 cooks, restaurants. The highest concentrations are in Madison and Kenosha.
Cooks, Restaurant salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | $38K | $18.46/hr | 3,290 |
| Kenosha | $38K | $18.06/hr | 610 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $38K | $18.05/hr | 6,660 |
| Green Bay | $37K | $17.85/hr | 1,520 |
| Appleton | $37K | $17.72/hr | 1,000 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $37K | $17.72/hr | 670 |
| Wausau | $37K | $17.63/hr | 510 |
| Sheboygan | $37K | $17.6/hr | 430 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $37K | $17.55/hr | 900 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $36K | $17.49/hr | 530 |
| Fond du Lac | $36K | $17.46/hr | 310 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $36K | $17.35/hr | 580 |
| Eau Claire | $36K | $17.35/hr | 740 |
Cooks, Restaurant salary range in Wisconsin
Cooks, Restaurant careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, restaurant make in Wisconsin?▼
The median cooks, restaurant salary in Wisconsin is $36,940 per year ($17.76/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $36,830. Salaries range from $27,980 to $47,030.
What are the requirements to become a cooks, restaurant in Wisconsin?▼
Cooks, Restaurant 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, restaurant afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $36,940, a cooks, restaurant in Wisconsin would take home approximately $2,565/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cooks, restaurants in Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cooks, restaurants in Wisconsin are Madison ($38,400), Kenosha ($37,570), Milwaukee-Waukesha ($37,540). 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, restaurants?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.6%. On a $36,940 salary, this means roughly $944/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.