Cook Salary in El Cajon, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Cook make in El Cajon, CA?

The average salary for a Cook is $36,884 per year in El Cajon, CA.

In El Cajon, CA, cooks earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a cook in this area is $36,884. This number can vary based on experience and specific roles within the culinary field.


Entry-level cooks might start around $32,000 per year. With more experience, salaries can increase significantly. For example, those with a few years under their belt might earn approximately $35,273 annually.


More skilled cooks can earn upwards of $40,000 per year, reaching as high as $44,000 with the right experience and position. This range reflects the potential for growth in the culinary industry. Job seekers can find various opportunities and growth paths in this field, making it appealing for those with a passion for cooking.

View Cook Jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Cook near El Cajon, CA?

Cooks looking for high-paying opportunities near El Cajon, CA, should consider Coronado, where the average salary stands at $44,315. La Jolla and Jamul also offer competitive wages, with average salaries of $42,749 and $41,752, respectively. San Diego, a bustling city for culinary professionals, provides an average salary of $40,997, ensuring a range of options for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near El Cajon, CA, highlighting Coronado, CA with the highest at $44,315 and Chula Vista, CA with the lowest at $37,431.
  1. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $44,315
    Working in Coronado offers a beautiful waterfront view while preparing meals for locals and tourists. Restaurants like The Crown Room provide opportunities to create memorable dining experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Coronado, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $42,749
    La Jolla is known for its upscale dining options and fresh seafood. As a cook here, you may work at popular spots such as George's at the Cove, where you can showcase your culinary skills.
    Find Cook jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $41,752
    In Jamul, you find a mix of casual eateries and fine dining establishments. Cooks here can enjoy a close-knit community while delivering comfort food and unique dishes to locals.
    Find Cook jobs in Jamul, CA


  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $40,997
    San Diego's diverse culinary scene allows cooks to experiment with different flavors and cuisines. Popular companies like The Fish Market and Born & Raised highlight the local talent and creativity in cooking.
    Find Cook jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $40,517
    Del Mar's beachside location makes it ideal for creating fresh and vibrant dishes. Cooks often work at high-end restaurants like Jake's, focusing on fresh ingredients and coastal cuisine.
    Find Cook jobs in Del Mar, CA


  6. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $39,940
    Poway offers a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of dining options. Cooks can enjoy working in family-owned restaurants that emphasize a home-cooked feel and local produce.
    Find Cook jobs in Poway, CA


  7. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $38,735
    Cooks in La Mesa enjoy a vibrant food culture with community events celebrating local cuisine. Working at places like The Hills and other small eateries allows for creativity and connection with patrons.
    Find Cook jobs in La Mesa, CA


  8. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $38,531
    In Alpine, cooks can experience a close community and countryside setting. Restaurants often focus on hearty meals and comfort food, making it a rewarding place to showcase cooking talent.
    Find Cook jobs in Alpine, CA


  9. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $37,452
    Solana Beach is known for its laid-back vibe and unique dining options. Cooks can take pride in working at local favorites like The Fishery, serving fresh and sustainable seafood.
    Find Cook jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  10. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $37,431
    Chula Vista boasts a rich cultural diversity, providing cooks the chance to explore different culinary traditions. Local establishments often feature family recipes, making every dish a unique experience.
    Find Cook jobs in Chula Vista, CA

What are the best paying companies for Cook in El Cajon, CA?

In El Cajon, CA, top companies for Cook jobs offer attractive salaries. Genuine Foods leads the way with an average salary of $42,400, followed closely by Denny's at $40,508. Other notable employers include Sycuan Casino and Senior Resource Group, providing competitive pay as well.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in El Cajon, CA, highlighting Genuine Foods with the highest at $42,400 and Jack in the Box with the lowest at $31,733.
  1. Genuine Foods
    Average Salary: $42,400
    Genuine Foods offers a vibrant workplace for Cooks. They focus on providing healthy and fresh meals. Job opportunities are available in El Cajon as well as various locations across California, supporting a mission of nutritious food.


  2. Denny's
    Average Salary: $40,508
    Denny's values its Cooks and provides a fun and fast-paced environment. Employees create classic diner meals for customers. Denny's has locations throughout El Cajon, making it a convenient choice for job seekers.


  3. Sycuan Casino
    Average Salary: $38,750
    Sycuan Casino offers an exciting atmosphere for Cooks. They serve a variety of cuisines in their restaurants located at the casino. Working here allows cooks to gain experience in a bustling culinary environment in El Cajon.


  4. Senior Resource Group
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Senior Resource Group focuses on preparing meals for seniors with important dietary needs. Cooks play a vital role in enhancing the dining experience at their facilities in El Cajon, ensuring every meal is satisfying and healthy.


  5. Granite Hills Healthcare & Wellness Centre
    Average Salary: $36,500
    Granite Hills Healthcare & Wellness Centre provides an essential service by offering nourishing meals to patients. Cooks at this facility in El Cajon contribute to the well-being of their residents through quality food preparation.


  6. Summit Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $36,256
    Summit Restaurant Group creates delightful dining experiences. Cooks work in a friendly environment and offer a diverse menu. The company operates several locations in the El Cajon area, promoting teamwork and creativity.


  7. Rubio's Coastal Grill
    Average Salary: $35,200
    Rubio's Coastal Grill specializes in fresh Mexican cuisine. Cooks here prepare signature dishes in a lively setting. With a location in El Cajon, this restaurant draws food lovers who appreciate quality meals.


  8. Luna Grill
    Average Salary: $33,333
    Luna Grill prides itself on Mediterranean cuisine. Cooks enjoy a supportive team and create delicious meals that cater to various tastes. They have a location in El Cajon offering job opportunities for passionate cooks.


  9. Jack in the Box
    Average Salary: $31,733
    Jack in the Box serves a variety of fast-food options. Cooks work efficiently in a fast-paced setting to satisfy customer cravings. The El Cajon locations provide numerous entry-level opportunities in the culinary field.

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