Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,680 | $36,450 | +25.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #6 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 27,320 jobs | 448,260 jobs | 6.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,710 | $17.65 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,200 | $18.84 |
| Median | $45,680 | $21.96 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,350 | $24.21 |
| 90th Percentile | $59,960 | $28.83 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $45,680 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +55.8%, cooks, institution and cafeteria are still in strong and growing demand.
How can cooks, institution and cafeteria increase their salary in California?
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #6 out of 54 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $54,250 |
| Support Activities for Water Transportation | $49,370 |
| Support Activities for Transportation | $49,370 |
How are Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in California is $45,680, which is 25.3% above the national median of $36,450.