Cook Salaries

A Cook can earn a variety of salaries based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a Cook stands at approximately $34,302. However, salaries can vary quite a bit.

Starting at around $22,100, entry-level positions begin on the lower end of the scale. As a Cook gains experience, they can expect their salary to rise. For example, with a few years of experience, a Cook can earn about $29,379.

Cooks with more skills and years in the industry may find salaries rising even higher. Those who reach the top of their field can make up to $48,790 annually.

This range shows that the Cook position offers growth opportunities. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career while earning a comfortable salary.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $48,991
   San Francisco offers a vibrant food scene with many upscale restaurants and innovative cafés. Working in this city allows culinary professionals to craft unique dishes while showcasing fresh, local ingredients.
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2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $46,101
   Seattle’s culinary landscape is rich with seafood and global cuisines. Many high-end restaurants and food markets provide opportunities for cooks to expand their skills and creativity.
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3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $44,311
   San Jose is a growing tech hub with a diverse range of dining options. Cooks can find positions in both casual eateries and fine dining establishments that cater to a multicultural crowd.
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4. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $42,691
   Salinas, known as the Salad Bowl of the World, provides an abundance of fresh produce. Cooks here can work with the best ingredients, creating fresh and wholesome dishes in local restaurants.
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5. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $41,616
   Santa Rosa is home to a booming farm-to-table movement. Cooks can engage with local farms, creating dishes that highlight the region’s fresh ingredients and support sustainable practices.
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6. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $41,450
   Boston boasts a rich culinary history and is famous for its seafood and Italian cuisine. Cooks in this city can thrive in an environment filled with both traditional and modern dining experiences.
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7. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $40,957
   Los Angeles presents endless opportunities for culinary professionals in its diverse restaurant scene. With a focus on health-conscious and trendy foods, cooks can innovate and explore countless flavor profiles.
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8. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $40,848
   San Diego's beautiful coastal location leads to a focus on fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine. Cooks can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while working in beachside restaurants or upscale dining venues.
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9. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $40,467
   Portland is known for its commitment to local and organic ingredients. Cooks in this city can find a vibrant food culture that encourages creativity and experimentation in a variety of settings.
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10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $40,436
    Denver's growing food scene embraces diverse cuisines, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients. Cooks often find creative freedom in developing new menu items while working in a dynamic culinary community.
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1. TEEMA
   Average Salary: $75,240
   TEEMA offers competitive salaries for cooks, with a strong focus on culinary excellence. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, providing opportunities to work in diverse kitchen environments.
   




2. State of Illinois
   Average Salary: $72,370
   Cooks at the State of Illinois enjoy stable employment and good benefits. Positions may be available in state-run facilities across the state, providing consistent opportunities for professional growth.
   




3. Scratch Restaurants Group
   Average Salary: $70,701
   Scratch Restaurants Group emphasizes a creative culinary experience, offering cooks a chance to work in vibrant kitchens. They operate in trendy urban areas, providing a dynamic work environment.
   




4. Sutter Health
   Average Salary: $65,535
   Sutter Health provides cooks with a supportive work atmosphere in healthcare settings. Opportunities exist in various facilities in California, catering to patients' nutritional needs.
   




5. The Walt Disney Company
   Average Salary: $59,009
   Cooks at The Walt Disney Company work in a magical environment, serving guests in theme parks and resorts. Positions are available in California and Florida, allowing for a unique culinary experience.
   




6. Prince Resorts Hawaii
   Average Salary: $56,967
   Prince Resorts Hawaii offers cooks the chance to work in a beautiful setting while showcasing local flavors. Job opportunities are available in several resorts across Hawaii, creating a tropical working atmosphere.
   




7. 1 Hotels
   Average Salary: $56,803
   1 Hotels values sustainability and healthy living. Cooks work in eco-friendly kitchens at locations in major cities, providing guests with nutritious options that reflect the local culture.
   




8. Northwell Health
   Average Salary: $55,490
   Northwell Health employs cooks to support their mission of patient wellness. Opportunities exist in various healthcare facilities throughout New York, emphasizing nutritious meal preparation.
   




9. E3 Co. Restaurant Group
   Average Salary: $53,969
   E3 Co. Restaurant Group aims to provide an innovative dining experience. Cooks can find roles in various restaurant locations, focusing on high-quality ingredients and unique menu offerings.
   




10. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $53,932
    Cooks at the US Department of Veterans Affairs play a vital role in serving veterans. Positions are available in many facilities, ensuring quality meals for those who have served the country.
    

1. Gain Experience: The more years you work in the kitchen, the more skills you develop. Experienced cooks often earn higher wages.
2. Specialize: Focus on a specific type of cuisine, such as Italian, French, or vegan cooking. Specialization can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
3. Network: Build connections within the food industry. Meeting chefs, restaurant owners, and food critics can open doors to new job offers and higher-paying positions.
4. Invest in Education: Taking cooking classes or earning a culinary degree can improve your skills and make you more marketable. Many employers value formal training.
5. Show Leadership Skills: Take on leadership tasks, such as overseeing a kitchen staff or managing food costs. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries and more responsibilities.