Cook Salary in Tacoma, WA

Updated on Feb 09, 2025
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How much does a Cook make in Tacoma, WA?

The average salary for a Cook is $40,809 per year in Tacoma, WA.

In Tacoma, WA, cooks earn a competitive salary that reflects their hard work and dedication. The average yearly salary for a cook in this area is approximately $40,809.


Cooks typically start with salaries around $32,000, but experience and skill can lead to higher earnings. For example, those who progress in their careers can see salaries rise to over $53,000.


Many factors influence a cook's salary, including experience, location within Tacoma, and the type of establishment where they work. As cooks refine their skills and take on more responsibility, they often enjoy increased pay and better job opportunities. Overall, a cooking career in Tacoma offers both growth potential and a chance to be part of a vibrant culinary community.

View Cook Jobs in Tacoma, WA

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

Cook jobs near Tacoma, WA, offer competitive salaries in various cities. Steilacoom leads the way with an average salary of $44,447, followed closely by Enumclaw at $42,881. Other notable cities include Federal Way and Gig Harbor, with average salaries of $40,905 and $40,743, respectively, making this region a promising place for culinary professionals seeking higher pay.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Tacoma, WA, highlighting Steilacoom, WA with the highest at $44,447 and University Place, WA with the lowest at $38,920.
  1. Steilacoom, WA
    Average Salary: $44,447
    Steilacoom offers a charming atmosphere for culinary professionals. With local eateries like the Steilacoom Pub and Grill, it provides great opportunities for cooks to showcase their talent in a close-knit community.
    Find Cook jobs in Steilacoom, WA


  2. Enumclaw, WA
    Average Salary: $42,881
    Enumclaw features a mix of rustic and modern dining options. Cooks can find rewarding positions at establishments such as the Enumclaw Bakery, contributing to a vibrant local food scene.
    Find Cook jobs in Enumclaw, WA


  3. Federal Way, WA
    Average Salary: $40,905
    Federal Way boasts a diverse dining landscape with many restaurants that cater to varied tastes. Cooks can explore opportunities at popular places like the Red Lobster and local eateries, making it a dynamic place to work.
    Find Cook jobs in Federal Way, WA


  4. Gig Harbor, WA
    Average Salary: $40,743
    Gig Harbor is known for its beautiful waterfront and lively restaurant scene. Working in this city offers cooks a chance to be part of celebrated spots like The Tides Tavern, where culinary creativity thrives.
    Find Cook jobs in Gig Harbor, WA


  5. Auburn, WA
    Average Salary: $40,630
    Auburn's growing restaurant industry creates many opportunities for cooks. Local favorites like the Rainier Bar & Grill allow culinary enthusiasts to sharpen their skills and serve a happy clientele.
    Find Cook jobs in Auburn, WA


  6. Milton, WA
    Average Salary: $40,429
    Milton provides a friendly environment for cooks with a range of dining establishments. Local spots like the Milton Tavern offer a welcoming atmosphere where culinary professionals can develop their craft.
    Find Cook jobs in Milton, WA


  7. Sumner, WA
    Average Salary: $40,372
    Sumner's small-town charm comes with a variety of restaurants. Cooks can find fulfilling work at places like the Sumner Café, where they can engage with the community and deliver delicious meals.
    Find Cook jobs in Sumner, WA


  8. Lakewood, WA
    Average Salary: $39,868
    Lakewood has a bustling food scene with many opportunities for cooks. Restaurants like China Moon offer diverse cuisine options, allowing culinary professionals to explore new flavors.
    Find Cook jobs in Lakewood, WA


  9. Kent, WA
    Average Salary: $39,027
    Kent is an exciting place for cooks seeking to advance their careers. With a vibrant mix of restaurants, including the popular Shooters Sport Restaurant, cooks can gain valuable experience in a fast-paced environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Kent, WA


  10. University Place, WA
    Average Salary: $38,920
    University Place combines beautiful parks with a lively dining scene. Cooks have the chance to work at well-regarded establishments like The Green Olive, enhancing their culinary skills in a supportive community.
    Find Cook jobs in University Place, WA

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

Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA, offer some strong salaries, with BMI Hospitality Management leading the way at an average of $48,000 per year. Following closely are the FLIK Hospitality Group and MultiCare Health System, both providing competitive pay around $47,750 and $47,640, respectively. These companies, among others, present great opportunities for cooks seeking better earnings while pursuing their passion for food.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA, highlighting BMI Hospitality Management with the highest at $48,000 and Pacific Seafood with the lowest at $41,433.
  1. BMI Hospitality Management
    Average Salary: $48,000
    BMI Hospitality Management offers Cook positions known for their focus on quality and service. They operate in several locations around Tacoma, ensuring a strong support network and growth opportunities for their kitchen staff.


  2. FLIK Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $47,750
    FLIK Hospitality Group values creativity in its Cook roles. They have various settings in and around Tacoma, providing a dynamic work environment where culinary skills are highly appreciated.


  3. MultiCare Health System
    Average Salary: $47,640
    MultiCare Health System employs Cooks in its healthcare facilities. Located throughout Tacoma, this organization prides itself on offering nourishing meals to its patients and staff.


  4. E3 Co. Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $46,733
    E3 Co. Restaurant Group runs a collection of popular dining venues in Tacoma. They seek enthusiastic Cooks who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment while delivering exceptional dishes.


  5. Compass Group
    Average Salary: $45,750
    Compass Group provides a variety of food services in Tacoma. They hire Cooks who work in diverse settings, from schools to corporate environments, ensuring each meal meets high standards.


  6. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
    Average Salary: $45,646
    Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers Cook roles in its hospitals and health facilities around Tacoma. They emphasize nutritious food for patients and staff, making these positions vital to their mission.


  7. Brookdale Senior Living
    Average Salary: $45,574
    Brookdale Senior Living provides Cook opportunities in their senior living communities in Tacoma. They focus on creating a warm dining experience for residents, necessitating skilled and caring kitchen staff.


  8. Avalon Health Care Group
    Average Salary: $43,120
    Avalon Health Care Group hires Cooks for their skilled nursing facilities in Tacoma. They prioritize flavor and nutrition in meals, providing a rewarding environment for culinary professionals.


  9. Evergreen Healthcare Group
    Average Salary: $42,000
    Evergreen Healthcare Group employs Cooks in various locations in Tacoma, focusing on delivering quality meals to residents and patients. Their culinary team plays a crucial role in enhancing wellbeing.


  10. Pacific Seafood
    Average Salary: $41,433
    Pacific Seafood seeks Cooks who are passionate about seafood preparation in their operations around Tacoma. They directly supply fresh products to local restaurants, creating an exciting culinary atmosphere.

There are 18,748 Cook job openings nationwide!

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