Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Iowa
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Iowa | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $34,560 | $36,450 | -5.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #37 of 54 states | ||
| Employment | 9,460 jobs | 448,260 jobs | 2.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Iowa
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,140 | $12.09 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,680 | $14.27 |
| Median | $34,560 | $16.61 |
| 75th Percentile | $36,830 | $17.71 |
| 90th Percentile | $40,410 | $19.43 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Iowa in 2026?
With a median salary of $34,560 in Iowa and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +52.0%, cooks, institution and cafeteria are still in strong and growing demand.
How can cooks, institution and cafeteria increase their salary in Iowa?
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Iowa 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: Iowa currently ranks #37 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 Iowa?
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 Iowa compared to the national average?
The median salary for Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Iowa is $34,560, which is 5.2% below the national median of $36,450.