Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary 2025: $37,450 Median
The median salary for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in the United States is $37,450 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $18 an hour. The typical range spans from $28,480 at the 10th percentile to $49,670 at the 90th percentile. These workers prepare large quantities of food for schools, hospitals, cafeterias, and other institutions.
How much Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria earn
The national median salary of $37,450 is the midpoint: half earn more, half earn less. The mean (average) wage is slightly higher at $38,810. Most full-time workers make between $28,480 and $49,670. Pay varies by experience, location, and employer type.
Highest earners (90th percentile) bring home about $49,670, while entry-level workers (10th percentile) start near $28,480.
Pay by state
Top-paying states for this occupation include Washington ($49,670), Alaska ($48,580), Massachusetts ($47,790), Hawaii ($47,770), and Rhode Island ($46,570). At the low end, Mississippi ($27,390), Alabama ($27,120), and Louisiana ($25,490) pay the least. That's a difference of nearly $25,000 between the highest and lowest state averages.
Regional cost of living and local demand for institutional food service explain much of the gap.
How to become Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. No formal postsecondary education is mandatory, but many employers prefer candidates with some culinary training or a certificate from a technical school. On-the-job training is common and usually lasts a few weeks to months.
Key skills include sanitation knowledge (ServSafe certification is a plus), ability to follow recipes, and physical stamina. Advancement to lead cook or supervisor often comes with experience.
- Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
- Gain entry-level kitchen experience (e.g., dishwasher, prep cook).
- Consider a certificate program in culinary arts or food service management.
- Earn food safety certification (often required by state or employer).
- Apply to schools, hospitals, corporate cafeterias, or government institutions.
Job outlook
Employment of cooks, institution and cafeteria is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 69,700 job openings each year over the decade, mostly due to workers leaving or retiring.
Demand remains steady because institutions like schools, hospitals, and nursing homes always need food service, but automation and prepared-food services may temper growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in 2025?
The national median salary is $37,450 per year, or about $18 per hour, based on BLS data.
Which states pay the highest wages?
Washington ($49,670), Alaska ($48,580), Massachusetts ($47,790), Hawaii ($47,770), and Rhode Island ($46,570) are the top-paying states.
How do I become a cook in an institution or cafeteria?
Typically a high school diploma is needed, along with on-the-job training. A food safety certificate and some culinary coursework can improve prospects.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria data.