How to Become a Cooks, Short Order in Iowa
Cooks, Short Orders in Iowa earn a median salary of $31,520/year, which is 12% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, short order takes home approximately $753/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a cooks, short order can afford in Iowa
Becoming a cooks, short order in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Cooks, Short Order 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, short order 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, short orders. 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 1,680 cooks, short orders. The highest concentrations are in Ames and Iowa City.
Cooks, Short Order salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ames | $35K | $16.77/hr | 90 |
| Iowa City | $35K | $16.69/hr | 130 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $34K | $16.19/hr | 360 |
| Dubuque | $33K | $15.63/hr | 80 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $32K | $15.52/hr | 160 |
| Sioux City | $32K | $15.36/hr | 90 |
| Cedar Rapids | $31K | $15.13/hr | 150 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $30K | $14.58/hr | 120 |
Cooks, Short Order salary range in Iowa
Cooks, Short Order careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, short order make in Iowa?▼
The median cooks, short order salary in Iowa is $31,520 per year ($15.16/hr). This is 12% below the national median of $35,620. Salaries range from $24,930 to $39,530.
What are the requirements to become a cooks, short order in Iowa?▼
Cooks, Short Order 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, short order afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $31,520, a cooks, short order in Iowa would take home approximately $2,165/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 65.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cooks, short orders in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cooks, short orders in Iowa are Ames ($34,880), Iowa City ($34,710), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($33,670). 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, short orders?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $31,520 salary, this means roughly $1,387/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.