Cook Salaries

Cooks play an important role in the food industry, and their salaries reflect this meaningful work. The average yearly salary for a cook is around $34,022. This amount can vary depending on experience, location, and type of establishment.

Entry-level cooks may earn around $22,050, while more experienced professionals can make significantly more. For instance, those in the middle of their careers may expect to earn between $29,127 and $38,564 annually. Cooks advancing in their careers can reach salaries as high as $48,000.

Job seekers can find diverse opportunities in this field. Since the food industry values skilled cooks, advancing your skills can lead to a rewarding career and improved salary potential. It's a great time to consider a job as a cook, as the industry continues to thrive and offers room for growth.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $48,941
   Working in San Francisco offers a vibrant culinary scene filled with diverse options. Notable establishments like Zuni Café and Gary Danko showcase local ingredients and innovative cuisines, giving cooks the chance to learn and grow in their craft.
   Find Cook jobs in San Francisco, CA
   




2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $46,033
   Seattle's food culture thrives on fresh seafood and local produce, creating a unique working environment for culinary professionals. Renowned eateries like Canlis and Pike Place Market not only highlight the city’s culinary diversity but also provide valuable experience in a competitive field.
   Find Cook jobs in Seattle, WA
   




3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $44,292
   As a major city in Silicon Valley, San Jose combines technology with culinary creativity. Restaurants like The Grill on the Alley and La Mediterranee offer cooks the opportunity to develop new skills while catering to a diverse population.
   Find Cook jobs in San Jose, CA
   




4. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $42,445
   Salinas, known as the Salad Bowl of the World, boasts an abundance of fresh produce. Cooks here can take advantage of local ingredients, working in restaurants that value farm-to-table dining, such as The Farm Restaurant.
   Find Cook jobs in Salinas, CA
   




5. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $41,583
   Santa Rosa, with its rich agricultural heritage, provides cooks with access to high-quality local ingredients. Restaurants like John Ash & Co. highlight the region's offerings, allowing culinary professionals to create dishes that reflect the local flavor.
   Find Cook jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
   




6. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $41,444
   Boston's historical charm is matched by its exciting culinary landscape. Cooks can thrive in renowned establishments like Legal Sea Foods and No. 9 Park, gaining experience in a city known for its diverse and high-quality cuisine.
   Find Cook jobs in Boston, MA
   




7. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $40,806
   Los Angeles offers a dynamic and varied food scene perfect for creative cooks. From trendy food trucks to upscale dining at places like Spago, culinary professionals can explore a wide range of flavors and cooking styles.
   Find Cook jobs in Los Angeles, CA
   




8. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $40,777
   With its stunning coastline and mild weather, San Diego presents unique opportunities for cooks. Restaurants like George's at the Cove focus on seasonal ingredients, enabling culinary talent to expand their skills in a lively environment.
   Find Cook jobs in San Diego, CA
   




9. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $40,395
   Portland is famous for its commitment to local and sustainable food. Cooks here can engage with farm-fresh ingredients at restaurants like Pok Pok, allowing them to be part of the city's vibrant, innovative dining culture.
   Find Cook jobs in Portland, OR
   




10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $40,383
    Denver's food scene blends tradition with modern flair. Cooks can find enriching opportunities in popular restaurants like Mercantile Dining & Provision, where they can creatively explore a mix of local flavors and culinary techniques.
    Find Cook jobs in Denver, CO
    

1. Kitchen Craft Cookware
   Average Salary: $92,500
   Kitchen Craft Cookware offers high-paying cook positions in a dynamic kitchen environment. They focus on quality and innovation with locations across the United States.
   




2. TEEMA
   Average Salary: $75,240
   TEEMA employs cooks who are passionate about food and service. They provide opportunities in various cities, emphasizing teamwork and creativity in their kitchens.
   




3. Scratch Restaurants Group
   Average Salary: $71,316
   Scratch Restaurants Group values fresh ingredients and talented cooks. They operate in several locations, promoting a farm-to-table approach and inviting teamwork.
   




4. State of Illinois
   Average Salary: $69,579
   The State of Illinois offers stable cook positions with benefits. Cooks work in state facilities, ensuring quality meals for public service, primarily in Springfield and Chicago.
   




5. Sutter Health
   Average Salary: $65,473
   Sutter Health employs cooks within their healthcare facilities to provide nutritious meals. Opportunities exist in various locations, focusing on patient care and dietary needs.
   




6. The Walt Disney Company
   Average Salary: $58,035
   The Walt Disney Company hires cooks to create magical dining experiences. Positions are available at Disneyland and Disney World, offering unique food service in an exciting environment.
   




7. Hilo Medical Center
   Average Salary: $57,797
   Hilo Medical Center looks for dedicated cooks to serve their patients. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, they offer an opportunity to work within a caring medical community.
   




8. 1 Hotels
   Average Salary: $57,212
   1 Hotels seeks cooks focused on sustainable practices. They operate in coastal cities across the U.S., providing a unique culinary experience that emphasizes local ingredients.
   




9. Army Corps of Engineers
   Average Salary: $57,155
   Army Corps of Engineers offers cook positions that support various projects. Cooks serve in different regions, contributing to team morale with quality meals.
   




10. Northwell Health
    Average Salary: $55,822
    Northwell Health employs cooks in their hospitals and facilities. They focus on health and nutrition, serving New York communities and ensuring patient satisfaction.
    

To boost your earnings as a Cook, focus on these key factors:

1. Gain Experience: Work in different kitchens and roles. More experience often leads to higher pay and better job offers.
2. Specialize: Learn a specific cuisine or cooking technique. Chefs who offer unique skills can demand higher salaries.
3. Network: Build relationships with other professionals in the industry. Networking can open doors to better job opportunities.
4. Improve Skills: Take courses or workshops to enhance your cooking skills and knowledge. Better skills can lead to promotions and pay raises.
5. Consider Location: Work in cities or areas where chefs earn more. Higher living costs often mean higher wages.