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Food Service · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Cooks, Short Order in Pennsylvania

Cooks, Short Orders in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $18,400/year, which is 48% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, short order takes home approximately -$71/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$18K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-48%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
3,800
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a cooks, short order can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$18,400
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$1,341/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home105.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$18,400/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent-$71/mo

Becoming a cooks, short order in Pennsylvania

1

Meet education requirements

Cooks, Short Order positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many cooks, short order positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification

Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, short orders. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs 3,800 cooks, short orders. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Williamsport.

Cooks, Short Order salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$33K$15.63/hr1,220
Williamsport$26K$12.66/hr50
York-Hanover$26K$12.33/hr100
Lancaster$25K$11.84/hr
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton$22K$10.73/hr170
Reading$22K$10.53/hr110
Erie$22K$10.51/hr80
Harrisburg-Carlisle$22K$10.49/hr250
Scranton--Wilkes-Barre$18K$8.7/hr150

Cooks, Short Order salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$17K
25th percentile
$17K
Median (50th)
$18K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$39K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a cooks, short order make in Pennsylvania?

The median cooks, short order salary in Pennsylvania is $18,400 per year ($8.85/hr). This is 48% below the national median of $35,620. Salaries range from $16,640 to $38,870.

What are the requirements to become a cooks, short order in Pennsylvania?

Cooks, Short Order positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a cooks, short order afford to live in Pennsylvania?

At the median salary of $18,400, a cooks, short order in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $1,341/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 105.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for cooks, short orders in Pennsylvania?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, short orders in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($32,510), Williamsport ($26,330), York-Hanover ($25,650). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for cooks, short orders?

Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $18,400 salary, this means roughly $565/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.