Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary in Oklahoma City, OK

In Oklahoma City, cooks working in institutions and cafeterias typically earn a median annual salary of $29,330, which translates to a median hourly wage of $14.10. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $36,450. When compared to the local household income, where the area median is $70,499, it becomes evident that these cooks earn significantly less than the average household in Oklahoma City. This discrepancy highlights a broader trend of wage disparity between certain service occupations and overall economic conditions within the region.

Entry-level workers in this field are at the 10th percentile of earnings, earning approximately $23,770 annually, while those at the 25th percentile make about $27,330. Conversely, more experienced cooks who fall into the 75th percentile earn around $33,920 annually, with top earners in the 90th percentile making up to $36,620. The difference in earnings is driven by several factors including years of experience, skill level, and the size or prestige of the institution employing them. Additionally, geographic cost-of-living considerations and institutional budgets also play a role in determining wage differences between entry-level and experienced workers within this occupation.