Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary in Detroit, MI

In Detroit, MI, cooks working in institutions and cafeterias earn a median annual salary of $36,390, which is slightly below the national median of $36,450 for this occupation. The typical hourly wage stands at $17.50. When compared to the local area’s median household income of $75,123, the earnings for cooks reflect a significant disparity, indicating that these workers generally earn less than the broader community's average household income. This gap highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals in this role within the region.

For entry-level cooks in Detroit, salaries start around the 10th percentile at approximately $29,210 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn about $32,310 per year. As experience and skill levels increase, earnings can rise to the 75th percentile, with an annual salary of $38,670, and for highly experienced cooks in top roles, the 90th percentile marks earnings up to $44,230 annually. The difference between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven primarily by factors such as experience, expertise, institutional prestige, and additional responsibilities assumed over time. This progression underscores the importance of career development and specialization within the field for financial growth.