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Food Service · Minnesota

How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Minnesota

Food Preparation Workers in Minnesota earn a median salary of $34,820/year, which is 2% above the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $999/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$35K
Median salary in Minnesota
+2%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
23,720
Employed in Minnesota

What a food preparation workers can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$34,820
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$2,411/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home58.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,820/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$999/mo

Becoming a food preparation workers in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

Food Preparation Workers positions in Minnesota typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Minnesota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many food preparation workers positions in Minnesota require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

Minnesota may require specific licensing or professional certification for food preparation workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Minnesota Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 23,720 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Rochester.

Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$36K$17.14/hr16,060
Rochester$35K$17.01/hr760
Mankato$34K$16.57/hr380
Duluth$33K$15.87/hr900
St. Cloud$32K$15.26/hr830

Food Preparation Workers salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$30K
Median (50th)
$35K
75th percentile
$38K
90th percentile (senior)
$46K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a food preparation workers make in Minnesota?

The median food preparation workers salary in Minnesota is $34,820 per year ($16.74/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $28,590 to $45,620.

What are the requirements to become a food preparation workers in Minnesota?

Food Preparation Workers positions in Minnesota typically require No formal educational credential. Minnesota may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Minnesota licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Minnesota?

At the median salary of $34,820, a food preparation workers in Minnesota would take home approximately $2,411/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for food preparation workers in Minnesota?

The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($35,660), Rochester ($35,380), Mankato ($34,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Minnesota have state income tax for food preparation workers?

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $34,820 salary, this means roughly $1,083/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.