Cook Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Cook is $40,848 per year in San Diego, CA.

Cooks in San Diego, CA, earn a range of salaries, reflecting different skill levels and experiences. On average, a cook makes around $40,848 per year. Entry-level positions start at approximately $31,580, allowing individuals to gain valuable experience while earning a steady income. As cooks gain more skills and take on greater responsibilities, salaries can increase.


For example, those with a bit more experience can earn around $39,005, while more seasoned cooks might receive salaries up to $52,000 or more. This variety in earnings provides many opportunities for growth in the culinary field. With dedication and the right training, cooks can advance their careers and increase their earning potential in the vibrant culinary scene of San Diego.

View Cook Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Cook near San Diego, CA?

Cook jobs near San Diego, CA, offer competitive salaries, especially in some cities. Coronado leads the way with an average salary of $44,235, followed closely by La Jolla at $42,474. Other notable areas, such as Jamul and Del Mar, also provide solid earning potential, making these locations great options for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Coronado, CA with the highest at $44,235 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $36,779.
  1. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $44,235
    Living and working in Coronado offers a unique culinary experience. Known for its beautiful beaches and lovely hotels, venues like the Hotel del Coronado provide exciting opportunities for chefs who wish to showcase their skills in a vibrant atmosphere.
    Find Cook jobs in Coronado, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $42,474
    La Jolla features stunning ocean views and a bustling dining scene. Local establishments like George's at the Cove and The Cottage highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it an ideal location for skilled kitchen professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $41,706
    Jamul showcases a more rustic setting with a close-knit community. Opportunities at various family-owned restaurants allow chefs to connect with local flavors and create memorable dining experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Jamul, CA


  4. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $40,309
    Del Mar is known for its upscale dining and lively events, especially during the racing season. Many restaurants in this area focus on farm-to-table concepts, offering fantastic chances for cooks to innovate and impress guests.
    Find Cook jobs in Del Mar, CA


  5. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $39,497
    Poway's diverse community creates a rich culinary landscape. With a mix of casual dining and local eateries, cooks can thrive in an environment that values fresh ingredients and creativity.
    Find Cook jobs in Poway, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $38,718
    La Mesa boasts a charming downtown with a variety of dining options. Chefs here can enjoy working in vibrant cafes and bistros, contributing to the lively atmosphere while honing their culinary skills.
    Find Cook jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $38,475
    Alpine provides a peaceful environment with a focus on local produce. Chefs can explore farm-to-fork dining experiences and create dishes that reflect the flavors of the community.
    Find Cook jobs in Alpine, CA


  8. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $37,243
    Solana Beach features a blend of beachside casual dining and elegant restaurants. The area's focus on fresh seafood and coastal cuisine allows cooks to experiment with flavors inspired by the ocean.
    Find Cook jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  9. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $37,016
    Chula Vista is rich in cultural diversity, offering a vibrant scene for cooks. Many restaurants highlight fusion cuisine, making it an exciting place for culinary professionals to explore and create unique dishes.
    Find Cook jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  10. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $36,779
    El Cajon boasts a dynamic food scene that reflects its diverse population. Cooks can engage with various cuisines and work in both fast-casual and fine dining establishments, creating a stimulating work environment.
    Find Cook jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Cook in San Diego, CA?

Cook jobs at top companies in San Diego, CA offer competitive salaries that attract skilled professionals. Marriott International leads the way with an average salary of $49,252, closely followed by Hyatt at $49,060. Other notable employers include Scripps Health and Rady Children's Hospital, with average salaries of $48,687 and $48,293, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Marriott International with the highest at $49,252 and Admiral's Experience, Inc. with the lowest at $44,740.
  1. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $49,252
    Marriott International offers Cook positions with competitive salaries and excellent growth opportunities. They operate several locations in San Diego, providing a vibrant working environment in the hospitality sector.


  2. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $49,060
    Hyatt prides itself on exceptional service and quality food. Cooks at Hyatt in San Diego benefit from a friendly atmosphere and opportunities for career advancement across multiple properties in the area.


  3. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $48,687
    At Scripps Health, Cooks play a vital role in providing healthy, nutritious meals for patients and staff. The organization has several locations in San Diego, emphasizing a commitment to health and wellness.


  4. Rady Children's Hospital
    Average Salary: $48,293
    Rady Children's Hospital values the contribution of Cooks in providing quality meals for young patients. This respected hospital in San Diego creates a rewarding environment focused on care and compassion.


  5. EVANS HOTELS
    Average Salary: $47,021
    EVANS HOTELS operates various hospitality venues in San Diego, offering Cook roles that emphasize creativity and quality. Employees enjoy a supportive team environment within the vibrant hotel scene.


  6. Hilton
    Average Salary: $46,749
    Hilton provides Cooks with a chance to work in a global hospitality brand. The San Diego locations foster a professional atmosphere where teamwork and quality service take center stage.


  7. Accor
    Average Salary: $46,490
    Accor offers diverse culinary roles for Cooks in San Diego, emphasizing innovation and quality in cuisine. Employees enjoy a dynamic workplace within a globally recognized hotel chain.


  8. UC San Diego Health
    Average Salary: $46,131
    UC San Diego Health places importance on nutritious meals for patients and staff. Cooks at this esteemed healthcare institution in San Diego play a key role in delivering quality service.


  9. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $45,233
    At UC San Diego, Cooks contribute to a vibrant campus community by providing enjoyable dining experiences. Various locations on campus create a lively work setting for culinary professionals.


  10. Admiral's Experience, Inc.
    Average Salary: $44,740
    Admiral's Experience, Inc. offers Cooks opportunities within a unique dining setting. Located in San Diego, the company values creativity and quality in its culinary offerings.

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