Culinary schools in Iowa
We found 8 schools offering culinary arts training in Iowa, with campuses in Sioux City, Ankeny, Davenport, and Ottumwa and more. Chefs in Iowa earn a median $47,990 a year, according to the BLS.
- Schools
- 8
- Public colleges
- 8
- Median pay in IA
- $47,990
8 culinary arts schools
School results
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Western Iowa Tech Community College
Sioux City, IA · Public
- Culinary arts
- Electrician
- HVAC technician
- +22
What chefs earn in Iowa
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
- Median pay
- $47,990
- $23.07 an hour
- Typical range
- $36,770–$74,730
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in IA
- 1,640
- Job growth, 2025–35
- +6.6%
- 25,200 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
Hear from the best fits near Iowa
One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options. Free, with no obligation.
- Compare real costs and start dates
- Ask about financial aid and apprenticeships
- Your info goes only to the schools you're matched with
Step 1 of 3: Your trade
Frequently asked questions
How many culinary arts schools are in Iowa?
We list 8 schools in Iowa with culinary arts programs: 8 public colleges. Campuses are in Sioux City, Ankeny, Davenport, Ottumwa, and Fort Dodge.
Are there community college culinary arts programs in Iowa?
Yes. 8 public colleges in Iowa offer culinary arts. Public programs often cost less and are usually eligible for federal financial aid. Confirm costs and aid with each school.
How much does culinary arts school cost in Iowa?
Among the 8 schools here that report it to the U.S. Department of Education, the average yearly net price (after grants and scholarships) ranges from $8,059 to $14,629. That figure covers the whole school, not just this program, so ask each school for the program's total cost.
How much do chefs make in Iowa?
The median pay for chefs in Iowa is $47,990 a year, and most earn between $36,770 and $74,730, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How do I choose a culinary arts school in Iowa?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Other programs in Iowa
- Cosmetology schools (18)
- Welding schools (16)
- Auto mechanic schools (15)
- Criminal justice programs (15)
- Industrial maintenance schools (15)
- LPN programs (15)
- Massage therapy schools (14)
- Medical assistant schools (14)
- Esthetician schools (13)
- IT schools (13)
- Carpentry schools (12)
- EMT and paramedic schools (12)
- HVAC schools (11)
- Drafting schools (10)
- Diesel mechanic schools (10)
- Radiology tech schools (10)
Culinary schools in other states
- California (52)
- Florida (43)
- Texas (28)
- North Carolina (24)
- New York (20)
- Georgia (19)
- Illinois (18)
- Pennsylvania (17)
- Wisconsin (15)
- Oklahoma (13)
- Virginia (13)
- Washington (13)
- Puerto Rico (13)
- New Jersey (12)
- Mississippi (11)
- Michigan (10)