Cook Salary in Seattle, WA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Cook make in Seattle, WA?

The average salary for a Cook is $46,164 per year in Seattle, WA.

In Seattle, WA, cooks enjoy a competitive salary that reflects their skills and the demand for their work. The average yearly salary for a cook in this city is around $46,164. This amount varies based on experience, location, and the establishment where one works.


Entry-level cooks can expect to earn approximately $34,800, while more experienced cooks can make up to $56,450 annually. As cooks gain skills and experience, their earning potential increases. For example, cooks with several years in the field can make between $44,641 and $54,482 a year.


Seattle’s vibrant food scene creates numerous opportunities for cooks. Whether you work in a busy restaurant or a small café, the city offers a variety of culinary environments. The growth in dining options continues to support competitive wages for cooks. With dedication and a passion for food, cooks can build a fruitful career in Seattle.

View Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the highest paying cities for Cook near Seattle, WA?

For cooks seeking better pay near Seattle, several cities offer attractive salaries. Mountlake Terrace tops the list with an average salary of $46,727, followed closely by Issaquah and Snoqualmie at $46,292 and $46,145, respectively. Other cities like Mercer Island and Sammamish also provide competitive wages, making this region a promising area for culinary professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Seattle, WA, highlighting Mountlake Terrace, WA with the highest at $46,727 and Bainbridge Island, WA with the lowest at $41,701.
  1. Mountlake Terrace, WA
    Average Salary: $46,727
    Working in Mountlake Terrace offers a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of dining options. Local restaurants often seek talented chefs to bring creativity and flavor to their menus, providing a rewarding environment for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Mountlake Terrace, WA


  2. Issaquah, WA
    Average Salary: $46,292
    Issaquah boasts a lovely community with numerous restaurants and food establishments eager for skilled kitchen staff. The city's focus on fresh, local ingredients makes it an exciting place for culinary professionals to thrive and grow.
    Find Cook jobs in Issaquah, WA


  3. Snoqualmie, WA
    Average Salary: $46,145
    Snoqualmie, known for its stunning natural beauty, features restaurants that celebrate local flavors. The demand for creative culinary talent in this picturesque area ensures a fulfilling experience for those in the kitchen.
    Find Cook jobs in Snoqualmie, WA


  4. Mercer Island, WA
    Average Salary: $45,816
    Mercer Island offers a unique blend of upscale dining experiences and casual eateries. Chefs can find opportunities in both settings, where creativity and quality ingredients lead to satisfying customer experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Mercer Island, WA


  5. Sammamish, WA
    Average Salary: $45,571
    Sammamish is a growing community with a variety of dining establishments. Cooks here can expect a supportive environment with opportunities to create dishes that reflect the local palate.
    Find Cook jobs in Sammamish, WA


  6. Kirkland, WA
    Average Salary: $45,569
    Kirkland features a vibrant waterfront and a diverse range of restaurants. Working as a culinary professional here means engaging with seasonal ingredients while catering to a population that appreciates good food.
    Find Cook jobs in Kirkland, WA


  7. Redmond, WA
    Average Salary: $45,426
    Redmond, home to many tech companies, has a dynamic food scene. Culinary professionals can find opportunities in company cafeterias and local restaurants that value innovation and quality.
    Find Cook jobs in Redmond, WA


  8. Bellevue, WA
    Average Salary: $44,801
    Bellevue’s bustling city life and rich dining options provide many opportunities for chefs. Professionals in this area can work in everything from fine dining restaurants to family-owned eateries, enhancing their culinary skills.
    Find Cook jobs in Bellevue, WA


  9. Renton, WA
    Average Salary: $42,887
    Renton exhibits a diverse food culture with plenty of dining establishments. Cooks can thrive in this welcoming environment, where they can showcase their skills and creativity in various culinary settings.
    Find Cook jobs in Renton, WA


  10. Bainbridge Island, WA
    Average Salary: $41,701
    Bainbridge Island is known for its charming atmosphere and farm-to-table dining. Working here allows chefs to create dishes using fresh local ingredients, making it a fulfilling place for culinary enthusiasts.
    Find Cook jobs in Bainbridge Island, WA

What are the best paying companies for Cook in Seattle, WA?

In Seattle, several companies stand out for offering competitive salaries for cook jobs. Scratch Restaurants Group leads the way with an average salary of $71,500, followed closely by King County, WA at $68,690. Other notable employers include the US Department of Veterans Affairs and Morrison Healthcare, ensuring excellent earning potential for skilled cooks in the area.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Seattle, WA, highlighting Scratch Restaurants Group with the highest at $71,500 and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health with the lowest at $52,238.
  1. Scratch Restaurants Group
    Average Salary: $71,500
    Scratch Restaurants Group offers exciting opportunities for cooks across its various locations in Seattle. They focus on creating fresh, seasonal dishes and emphasize a positive work environment.


  2. King County, WA
    Average Salary: $68,690
    King County, WA employs cooks in various facilities, including community kitchens and correctional facilities. The county values teamwork and provides benefits for its employees.


  3. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $58,020
    The US Department of Veterans Affairs has cooks in its medical centers and long-term care settings. These cooks play a vital role in providing quality meals to veterans in Seattle.


  4. Morrison Healthcare
    Average Salary: $56,250
    Morrison Healthcare employs cooks in hospitals and healthcare facilities. They focus on serving nutritious meals and encourage creativity in menu planning.


  5. Community House Mental Health Agency
    Average Salary: $55,390
    Community House Mental Health Agency hires cooks to prepare meals for its residents. The agency values compassion and support for individuals facing mental health challenges.


  6. Seattle Children's
    Average Salary: $55,203
    Seattle Children's employs skilled cooks to prepare meals for patients and staff. Their team seeks to provide healthy, balanced options in a caring environment.


  7. Delaware North
    Average Salary: $54,100
    Delaware North operates restaurants and concessions in venues throughout Seattle. Cooks here focus on delivering a great dining experience to visitors and event guests.


  8. FareStart
    Average Salary: $53,880
    FareStart is known for its mission to help those in need by providing job training, including cooking jobs. Cooks work in a supportive environment that prioritizes social impact.


  9. Four Seasons
    Average Salary: $52,970
    The Four Seasons in Seattle offers cooks the chance to work in a luxurious setting. They emphasize high-quality cuisine and exceptional customer service.


  10. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
    Average Salary: $52,238
    Virginia Mason Franciscan Health employs cooks in its hospitals, focusing on providing nutritious meals for patients and staff. Their goal is to support health and recovery through quality dining.

There are 19,010 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.
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