Cook Salary in Cambridge, MA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Cambridge, MA?

The average salary for a Cook is $40,400 per year in Cambridge, MA.

In Cambridge, MA, cooks earn a competitive average yearly salary of about $40,400. Entry-level positions start around $34,000 annually, while more experienced cooks can make up to $51,000 or more. This range reflects different skill levels, responsibilities, and the type of restaurant or establishment.


Cooks in the lower salary brackets may work in entry-level roles or smaller dining venues. As they gain experience and improve their skills, they may move into higher-paying positions, such as line cooks or sous chefs. Cooks who specialize in certain cuisines or take on leadership roles within the kitchen can see their salaries increase even further.


Overall, the cooking profession in Cambridge offers solid pay and a variety of opportunities for growth. With dedication and experience, cooks can build a rewarding career in this vibrant city.

View Cook Jobs in Cambridge, MA

What are the highest paying cities for Cook near Cambridge, MA?

Jamaica Plain, MA, leads as the highest paying city for Cook jobs near Cambridge, offering an average salary of $52,678. Belmont and Chelsea follow, with average salaries of $45,834 and $44,703, respectively. These cities provide great opportunities for aspiring cooks looking to maximize their earnings in the culinary field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Cambridge, MA, highlighting Jamaica Plain, MA with the highest at $52,678 and Quincy, MA with the lowest at $38,851.
  1. Jamaica Plain, MA
    Average Salary: $52,678
    Working in Jamaica Plain offers a blend of community and culinary creativity. You can find opportunities in various restaurants that focus on local ingredients and vibrant flavors.
    Find Cook jobs in Jamaica Plain, MA


  2. Belmont, MA
    Average Salary: $45,834
    Belmont's growing dining scene provides a supportive environment for culinary professionals. Restaurants here often emphasize seasonal menus, giving you a chance to showcase your skills with fresh produce.
    Find Cook jobs in Belmont, MA


  3. Chelsea, MA
    Average Salary: $44,703
    Chelsea boasts a diverse food culture with many restaurants reflecting its rich heritage. You will experience a fast-paced environment that encourages innovation and collaboration among kitchen staff.
    Find Cook jobs in Chelsea, MA


  4. Somerville, MA
    Average Salary: $43,187
    Somerville is known for its thriving food scene, filled with trendy eateries and renowned chefs. In this city, you will find many opportunities to work in both casual and fine dining settings.
    Find Cook jobs in Somerville, MA


  5. Brighton, MA
    Average Salary: $41,714
    Brighton has a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to lively restaurants. Working here allows you to engage with a diverse clientele, making every shift unique and rewarding.
    Find Cook jobs in Brighton, MA


  6. Newton, MA
    Average Salary: $41,593
    Newton's upscale dining scene blends traditional and modern cuisine. Employment opportunities here often come from well-established restaurants focused on quality and exceptional customer service.
    Find Cook jobs in Newton, MA


  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $41,450
    Boston is a hub for culinary talent and offers numerous jobs in its vast restaurant landscape. You will find a mix of historic establishments and innovative kitchens that celebrate both local and global flavors.
    Find Cook jobs in Boston, MA


  8. Waltham, MA
    Average Salary: $40,737
    Waltham combines a rich history with a vibrant culinary community. This city is home to many popular restaurants that focus on farm-to-table dining, allowing you to work with fresh ingredients every day.
    Find Cook jobs in Waltham, MA


  9. Watertown, MA
    Average Salary: $39,168
    Watertown has a growing food scene with several local favorites. Working here often involves creating dishes that reflect the diverse backgrounds of the community, making your culinary experience rich and varied.
    Find Cook jobs in Watertown, MA


  10. Quincy, MA
    Average Salary: $38,851
    Quincy's waterfront location enhances its food culture with seafood specialties. You can find numerous opportunities in restaurants that prioritize local catch and creative cooking techniques.
    Find Cook jobs in Quincy, MA

What are the best paying companies for Cook in Cambridge, MA?

In Cambridge, MA, Cook positions offer competitive salaries at several top employers. The Neville Center at Fresh Pond leads the way with an average salary of $50,500, followed closely by Bon Appétit at $48,110. Other strong contenders include FLIK Hospitality Group and Restaurant Associates, with average salaries of $46,286 and $43,250, respectively, making this a promising area for culinary professionals.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Cambridge, MA, highlighting Neville Center at Fresh Pond with the highest at $50,500 and IHOP with the lowest at $36,000.
  1. Neville Center at Fresh Pond
    Average Salary: $50,500
    At Neville Center at Fresh Pond, cooks play a vital role in providing healthy meals for residents. This facility is located in a serene environment, ensuring a comfortable setting for both staff and those receiving care.


  2. Bon Appétit
    Average Salary: $48,110
    Bon Appétit operates in various locations, focusing on serving fresh, locally sourced meals. Cooks here enjoy a creative kitchen environment, crafting dishes that boost both flavor and nutrition across campuses in Cambridge.


  3. FLIK Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $46,286
    FLIK Hospitality Group prides itself on providing excellent dining experiences in the workplace. Cooks in this company prepare diverse menus that cater to different dietary needs and preferences in corporate cafeterias around Cambridge.


  4. Restaurant Associates
    Average Salary: $43,250
    Cooks at Restaurant Associates create memorable dining experiences. The company emphasizes quality and presentation in its meals, serving high-profile clients in various venues across Cambridge.


  5. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $42,500
    Sodexo employs cooks who contribute to meal preparation in a range of settings, from schools to hospitals. Their focus on sustainability and nutrition makes a significant impact on the communities in Cambridge.


  6. ISS Facility Services
    Average Salary: $42,429
    Cooks at ISS Facility Services work in a variety of environments, providing fresh food for employees and guests. This company values teamwork and customer service, ensuring everyone enjoys a great meal.


  7. Beth Israel Lahey Health
    Average Salary: $40,533
    At Beth Israel Lahey Health, cooks prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff. This healthcare-focused organization emphasizes health and wellness in every dish served, showing their commitment to quality care.


  8. Eurest
    Average Salary: $40,500
    Eurest serves delicious and diverse meals to employees in corporate settings. Cooks have the opportunity to innovate and create dishes that meet the needs of a busy workforce in Cambridge.


  9. Aramark
    Average Salary: $39,478
    Cooks at Aramark work in multiple venues, providing high-quality meals in educational institutions and business settings. They focus on freshness and presentation, enhancing the dining experience for everyone.


  10. IHOP
    Average Salary: $36,000
    At IHOP, cooks create popular breakfast dishes served all day. The friendly environment and flexible hours help create a supportive work-life balance for culinary staff in Cambridge.

There are 18,748 Cook job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Cook in the US?

Learn what a Cook does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Cook today.
Position
Overview
Cook
18,748 Job Openings
Understanding the Cook Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire