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Cooks (Institution and Cafeteria) Salary in Kentucky

Cooks (Institution and Cafeteria) in Kentucky earn a median of $31,550 a year, −16% compared with the U.S. median.

Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers

Median pay
$31,550
vs. U.S. median
−16% ($37,450)
Rank among states
45 of 51
Jobs in the state
11,540

Pay range in Kentucky

The lowest-paid 10% earn under $25,580; the top 10% earn over $45,720. Nationally the range is $28,480 to $49,670.

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Similar jobs in Kentucky

Cooks (Institution and Cafeteria) pay in Kentucky

How much do cooks (institution and cafeteria) make in Kentucky?

The median is $31,550 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $25,580 and the top 10% earn over $45,720. BLS OEWS May 2025.

Is Kentucky a good state for cooks (institution and cafeteria)?

On pay alone it ranks 45 of 51 (−16% vs. the national median of $37,450). Living costs are not included.

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Sources. Pay and employment: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 (national and state files). Pay is not adjusted for living costs. Data Sources & Licenses