Cook Salary in Worcester, MA

Updated on Feb 09, 2025
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How much does a Cook make in Worcester, MA?

The average salary for a Cook is $39,501 per year in Worcester, MA.

Cooks in Worcester, MA can expect to earn an average yearly salary of around $39,501. The salary range for cooks varies, with many earning from $31,600 at the lower end to $50,000 at the higher end, depending on experience and skill level.


Several factors influence a cook's pay in this region. Entry-level cooks typically start at around $31,600. As they gain experience, they might see their salary increase. For example, cooks with a few years of experience earn about $39,964, while those with more advanced skills may earn up to $43,309 or higher.


Worcester’s culinary scene offers various opportunities for cooks, whether in local restaurants, catering services, or institutional kitchens. With hard work and dedication, cooks in Worcester can expect a steady career path with room for financial growth.

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What are the highest paying cities for Cook near Worcester, MA?

Cook jobs in the Worcester, MA area offer competitive salaries, with Holden, MA leading the way at an average of $47,031. Other nearby cities such as West Boylston and Westborough also provide good pay, with average salaries of $45,608 and $41,506, respectively. Pursuing opportunities in these locations can help you maximize your earnings in the culinary field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Worcester, MA, highlighting Holden, MA with the highest at $47,031 and Hudson, MA with the lowest at $35,939.
  1. Holden, MA
    Average Salary: $47,031
    In Holden, working as a chef offers a chance to showcase your creativity in a warm community setting. Local favorites such as The Hold Out provide opportunities for culinary professionals to thrive in a cozy atmosphere.
    Find Cook jobs in Holden, MA


  2. West Boylston, MA
    Average Salary: $45,608
    West Boylston features a range of dining establishments where culinary skills can shine. The small-town charm enhances the experience, making it a great place for passionate chefs to grow and develop their craft.
    Find Cook jobs in West Boylston, MA


  3. Westborough, MA
    Average Salary: $41,506
    Westborough is home to a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and eateries. Cooking here allows you to be part of a lively culinary community, with companies like The Corner Café spotlighting local talent.
    Find Cook jobs in Westborough, MA


  4. Charlton, MA
    Average Salary: $41,410
    In Charlton, chefs can enjoy a tranquil environment while creating delicious meals. Local dining options, such as Charlton’s Quabbin Valley, offer positions that allow culinary artists to be innovative while serving the community.
    Find Cook jobs in Charlton, MA


  5. Auburn, MA
    Average Salary: $40,336
    Auburn offers a bustling culinary landscape, ideal for chefs looking to make their mark. Restaurants like The Grill on the Hill lead the way in providing fresh and enticing menu options that attract both locals and visitors.
    Find Cook jobs in Auburn, MA


  6. Marlborough, MA
    Average Salary: $38,145
    Marlborough boasts a diverse array of restaurants, providing ample opportunities for culinary professionals. Join the culinary scene by working with popular establishments that embrace creativity and innovation in cooking.
    Find Cook jobs in Marlborough, MA


  7. Shrewsbury, MA
    Average Salary: $37,215
    Shrewsbury presents an excellent environment for chefs to thrive. Many restaurants focus on farm-to-table concepts, allowing culinary experts to utilize fresh, local ingredients in their menus.
    Find Cook jobs in Shrewsbury, MA


  8. Paxton, MA
    Average Salary: $36,846
    Paxton, with its small-town atmosphere, offers unique cooking opportunities in charming settings. Local venues emphasize home-cooked meals, making it a satisfying place for culinary talent.
    Find Cook jobs in Paxton, MA


  9. Northborough, MA
    Average Salary: $36,695
    Northborough features a growing food scene that welcomes creative cooks. Local diners and eateries, like The Coffee Shop, provide spaces for chefs to develop their skills and serve delicious food.
    Find Cook jobs in Northborough, MA


  10. Hudson, MA
    Average Salary: $35,939
    Hudson is known for its vibrant culinary culture, with numerous restaurants offering a range of cuisines. This city provides a great platform for professional cooks to experiment and express their culinary passion.
    Find Cook jobs in Hudson, MA

What are the best paying companies for Cook in Worcester, MA?

In Worcester, MA, several companies offer competitive salaries for Cook positions. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health leads with an average salary of $49,945, followed closely by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at $48,327. Other notable employers include Encompass Health and NexDine, with average salaries of $46,650 and $44,600, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Worcester, MA, highlighting Massachusetts Department of Public Health with the highest at $49,945 and UMass Memorial Health with the lowest at $39,801.
  1. Massachusetts Department of Public Health
    Average Salary: $49,945
    The Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers Cook jobs that focus on healthy meal preparation for various health facilities. Locations include different state health organizations in Worcester and surrounding areas.


  2. Commonwealth of Massachusetts
    Average Salary: $48,327
    Cook positions under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts provide opportunities in state-run facilities. Employees prepare meals for residents in community programs throughout Worcester.


  3. Encompass Health
    Average Salary: $46,650
    Encompass Health employs Cooks to prepare nourishing meals in their rehabilitation centers. They operate facilities in the Worcester area, serving patients who require specialized dietary needs.


  4. NexDine
    Average Salary: $44,600
    NexDine manages food services for various establishments. Cooks in Worcester prepare diverse menus for corporate dining and educational institutions.


  5. SAGE Dining Services
    Average Salary: $42,571
    SAGE Dining Services hires Cooks to create wholesome meals in private schools and universities. Their Worcester operations focus on catering to the specific needs of student populations.


  6. Metz Culinary Management
    Average Salary: $41,267
    Metz Culinary Management offers Cook roles that emphasize fresh ingredients and health-conscious choices. They operate in several healthcare and corporate settings in Worcester.


  7. SALMON Health and Retirement
    Average Salary: $41,017
    SALMON Health and Retirement provides Cook jobs within their senior living communities. Cooks create balanced meals for residents in Worcester.


  8. FOOD MANAGEMENT GROUP, INC.
    Average Salary: $41,000
    FOOD MANAGEMENT GROUP, INC. manages dining services in various facilities. Cooks work in Worcester to prepare and serve meals across diverse venues.


  9. Veterans Inc.
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Veterans Inc. employs Cooks to support meal preparation for veterans in need. They operate in Worcester, focusing on providing nutritious food to this special community.


  10. UMass Memorial Health
    Average Salary: $39,801
    UMass Memorial Health looks for Cooks to serve patients and staff at their medical facilities. Their locations in Worcester emphasize high-quality meal service within the healthcare environment.

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