



In Bakersfield, CA, a Cook can expect to earn an average yearly salary of around $36,913. The salary for this position varies based on factors such as experience and skill level.
Entry-level Cooks may start with salaries close to $32,000. As they gain more experience, they can earn more. For instance, those with a few years of experience can make approximately $35,455. With continued growth and expertise, some Cooks can earn upwards of $50,000.
This salary range shows that Bakersfield offers a reasonable wage for Cooks, especially for those looking to build a rewarding career in the culinary field. Whether you are just starting or an experienced professional, there are opportunities to grow and thrive in this bustling city.

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Arvin, CA
Average Salary: $43,851
Working as a culinary professional in Arvin provides a unique experience in a tight-knit community. Local eateries focus on fresh ingredients, catering to farm-to-table dining, with opportunities to create vibrant dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.
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McFarland, CA
Average Salary: $40,905
In McFarland, culinary roles thrive in family-owned restaurants that serve traditional and regional dishes. The local food culture emphasizes fresh produce from nearby farms, allowing cooks to innovate while supporting local agriculture.
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Tehachapi, CA
Average Salary: $39,845
Tehachapi offers a serene environment for culinary enthusiasts. Working in local bistros and cafes, you can showcase seasonal ingredients and provide comfort food options that resonate with the community's outdoor lifestyle.
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West Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $38,724
West Sacramento boasts a growing culinary scene along with its proximity to the Sacramento region. Here, cooks can find diverse environments, from lively restaurants to food trucks, that celebrate a variety of flavors and styles.
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Oxnard, CA
Average Salary: $38,468
Oxnard is known for its coastal cuisine, where chefs can immerse themselves in seafood dishes. With numerous restaurants along the waterfront, there is ample opportunity to create menus that highlight fresh catches and local produce.
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Adelanto, CA
Average Salary: $38,065
In Adelanto, working in the culinary field allows you to explore a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisines. Local diners and food establishments often welcome creativity, making it a great place to enhance your culinary skills.
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Woodland, CA
Average Salary: $37,977
Woodland combines rich farming heritage with a vibrant food scene. Culinary professionals here can take advantage of local farmers' markets, crafting dishes that celebrate the area’s best seasonal ingredients.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $37,857
Riverside showcases a diverse culinary landscape, from upscale dining to casual eateries. Cooks in this city can expect a fast-paced environment with opportunities to deliver unique flavors that cater to a wide audience.
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Fontana, CA
Average Salary: $37,703
Fontana's culinary industry offers a variety of options, from street food to established restaurants. Cooks can enjoy creating dishes that reflect the multicultural influences that permeate the city.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $37,542
Fresno is rich in agricultural resources, making it a great place for those in the culinary arts. Cooks can prepare farm-fresh meals and explore a vibrant food scene that supports local farms and reflects the diversity of the community.
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Encompass Health
Average Salary: $51,000
Encompass Health offers a great environment for cooks. They focus on providing healthy meals in their rehabilitation and long-term care facilities in Bakersfield. Cooks at Encompass Health enjoy the chance to create nutritious dishes that support patients' recovery.
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Dignity Health
Average Salary: $49,473
Dignity Health operates several hospitals and healthcare facilities in Bakersfield. Cooks here play a key role in preparing meals that cater to diverse dietary needs, making a meaningful impact on patient care.
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HumanGood
Average Salary: $41,133
HumanGood provides quality services in senior living communities. Cooks at HumanGood in Bakersfield create flavorful and healthy meals, ensuring residents enjoy delicious dining experiences in a supportive environment.
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Morrison Healthcare
Average Salary: $40,000
Morrison Healthcare manages food services in various healthcare settings. Cooks at Morrison in Bakersfield focus on providing fresh and balanced meals, contributing positively to patient well-being.
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Aramark
Average Salary: $39,813
Aramark operates in many sectors, including healthcare and educational institutions. In Bakersfield, cooks with Aramark prepare high-quality meals, serving diverse populations and enhancing their dining experiences.
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Brookdale Senior Living
Average Salary: $38,668
Brookdale Senior Living features numerous senior living communities. Cooks here work in a vibrant setting, preparing meals that cater specifically to the tastes and dietary needs of residents in Bakersfield.
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SEVEN OAKS COUNTRY CLUB
Average Salary: $38,125
Seven Oaks Country Club provides a luxurious dining experience. Cooks at this Bakersfield location create exquisite dishes for members, highlighting creativity and attention to detail in every meal.
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Westcare
Average Salary: $37,333
Westcare focuses on providing services for mental health and addiction recovery. Cooks at Westcare in Bakersfield prepare nourishing meals that support recovery and wellness for their clients.
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Trinity Services Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $37,000
Trinity Services Group provides food services in correctional facilities. Cooks in Bakersfield work diligently to ensure meals are nutritious and balanced, meeting the needs of diverse populations.
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World Wide Wings
Average Salary: $36,350
World Wide Wings specializes in casual dining with a focus on chicken wings and comfort food. Cooks in their Bakersfield locations craft delicious meals, ensuring customers enjoy a fun and tasty dining experience.