Cook Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Feb 09, 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.

In San Diego, CA, Cooks enjoy a competitive salary range that reflects their skills and experience. The average yearly salary for a Cook in this city is approximately $40,848. Entry-level positions typically start at around $31,580, while those with more experience and responsibilities can earn up to $52,000 per year.


As Cooks gain more expertise, they can expect to see their earnings increase. About 18.3% of Cooks earn around $39,005, while another 17.7% make approximately $40,862. Those who reach the higher end of the scale enjoy salaries close to $52,000, with several earning in the vicinity of $48,287.


This positive trend in salary reflects the vibrant food scene in San Diego and the demand for skilled Cooks. Whether you are just starting or looking to advance in your culinary career, there's potential for growth and opportunity in this dynamic market.

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 some excellent pay in certain cities. Coronado tops the list with an average salary of $44,235, followed closely by La Jolla at $42,474. These cities not only provide competitive wages but also a vibrant culinary scene that makes them appealing 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
    Working as a culinary professional in Coronado offers a vibrant atmosphere surrounded by stunning beaches. Local dining gems like Peohe's and The Crown Bistro provide great opportunities to showcase your skills in a beautiful coastal setting.
    Find Cook jobs in Coronado, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $42,474
    La Jolla is known for its upscale dining and breathtaking ocean views. Restaurants like George's at the Cove and The Marine Room attract food lovers, creating a dynamic environment to enhance your culinary craft.
    Find Cook jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $41,706
    In Jamul, cooks can enjoy a close-knit community while preparing meals in local restaurants or catering services. The area's beautiful scenery complements the rewarding experience of serving delicious food to friendly locals.
    Find Cook jobs in Jamul, CA


  4. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $40,309
    Del Mar's coastal charm and well-known race track create a lively dining scene. Establishments such as Cucina Enoteca and Pacifica Del Mar offer cooks a chance to work with fresh ingredients and innovative recipes.
    Find Cook jobs in Del Mar, CA


  5. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $39,497
    Poway features a mix of casual eateries and charming diners that highlight the importance of comfort food. As a culinary professional here, you can gain valuable experience in a friendly, family-oriented environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Poway, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $38,718
    La Mesa is home to diverse dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes. Cooks in this vibrant community often participate in local events, building a reputation while connecting with passionate food lovers.
    Find Cook jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $38,475
    Alpine provides a unique setting for culinary professionals, with a focus on rustic, hearty meals. Working in local establishments allows cooks to explore seasonal produce and create wholesome dishes that resonate with the community.
    Find Cook jobs in Alpine, CA


  8. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $37,243
    Solana Beach boasts a mix of casual and upscale dining, attracting tourists and locals alike. Restaurants like Sea180 Coastal Tavern offer an exciting backdrop for culinary creativity in a stunning coastal environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  9. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $37,016
    Chula Vista sits at the heart of a diverse food scene featuring flavors from around the world. Cooks here enjoy working in a community that values culinary variety and lively dining experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  10. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $36,779
    El Cajon showcases a vibrant and multicultural dining landscape. As a culinary professional, you can experiment with various cuisines, making it a rewarding place to grow and develop your skills.
    Find Cook jobs in El Cajon, CA

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

In San Diego, several companies stand out for offering competitive salaries for Cook positions. Marriott International leads 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, which also provide attractive compensation for culinary talent.
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 exciting Cook positions in its upscale hotels and resorts located throughout San Diego. Chefs and kitchen staff enhance guest experiences by providing high-quality meals in a dynamic environment.


  2. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $49,060
    Hyatt hires cooks who are passionate about food and hospitality. Cooks work in various venues, including luxurious hotels and restaurants, serving locally inspired dishes in San Diego's vibrant culinary scene.


  3. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $48,687
    Scripps Health employs cooks who prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff across its hospitals and outpatient facilities in San Diego. The focus is on health-conscious cooking that supports wellness.


  4. Rady Children's Hospital
    Average Salary: $48,293
    Rady Children's Hospital looks for cooks to provide wholesome meals in a caring atmosphere. Cooks play a critical role in maintaining nutrition standards for young patients in the San Diego area.


  5. EVANS HOTELS
    Average Salary: $47,021
    Cook positions at EVANS HOTELS allow culinary professionals to shine in a variety of high-end settings. These hotels prioritize fine dining experiences and seasonal menus at their locations in beautiful San Diego.


  6. Hilton
    Average Salary: $46,749
    Hilton provides ample opportunities for cooks to grow and develop their culinary skills. Working at one of their San Diego hotels allows cooks to create exceptional meals that delight guests from around the world.


  7. Accor
    Average Salary: $46,490
    Accor is known for its diverse culinary offerings, hiring cooks who thrive in fast-paced environments. Positions are available in several of its properties in San Diego, catering to both travelers and locals.


  8. UC San Diego Health
    Average Salary: $46,131
    Cooks at UC San Diego Health help prepare meals that meet stringent health guidelines. Employees work in hospital kitchens, focusing on providing high-quality meals to staff and patients across the San Diego region.


  9. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $45,233
    At UC San Diego, cooks support campus dining services by preparing diverse culinary options. This role allows cooks to engage with students and faculty while working in several dining venues on campus.


  10. Admiral's Experience, Inc.
    Average Salary: $44,740
    Admiral's Experience, Inc. offers cooks a chance to create delicious meals in a unique working environment. With a focus on catering and events, cooks have the opportunity to showcase their skills at various San Diego venues.

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