Line Cook Salaries

As a Line Cook, you can expect to earn an average yearly salary of around $34,440. This figure reflects the earnings of individuals in the position across various experience levels and locations. The salary range spans from about $24,000 for those just starting to around $46,800 for more experienced cooks.

Many entry-level positions offer salaries around $24,000 to $26,073, which can increase as you gain more skills. With experience, line cooks can see their annual income rise significantly. For example, those with several years in the field may earn between $30,218 and $36,436. The highest salaries, upwards of $46,800, often come with greater responsibilities or management roles within the kitchen.

In addition to base pay, some line cooks may receive tips and overtime pay, which can boost their overall earnings. Your specific salary will depend on factors such as location, the type of establishment, and your experience level. Investing in your culinary skills can lead to higher salary opportunities in the future.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $45,341
   Working in San Francisco's vibrant food scene offers great opportunities for cooks. With renowned restaurants like Gary Danko and The French Laundry, you will learn from some of the best chefs in the industry.
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2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $44,991
   Seattle features a thriving culinary landscape, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Joining restaurants such as Canlis or Pike Place Market eateries allows line cooks to showcase their skills in an innovative environment.
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3. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $41,789
   Santa Rosa offers a relaxed yet bustling setting for culinary professionals. Working in farm-to-table restaurants like The Spinster Sisters, you will enjoy preparing fresh dishes daily.
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4. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $41,786
   San Jose boasts a diverse dining scene, from tech-inspired lunch spots to fine dining establishments. Working at popular places like The Grill on the Alley provides experience with various cuisines.
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5. Boulder, CO
   Average Salary: $41,744
   Boulder is known for its health-conscious eateries and strong emphasis on sustainability. As a cook here, you may work at places like The Kitchen, creating mouthwatering, farm-fresh dishes.
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6. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $40,865
   Boston's rich history translates into a dynamic food culture. Joining established restaurants like Legal Sea Foods or Oleana offers line cooks the chance to create classic dishes with a modern twist.
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7. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $40,838
   Denver’s culinary scene is booming, highlighting both comfort food and innovative dishes. Working in restaurants such as Mercantile Dining & Provision gives cooks the opportunity to develop their craft.
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8. Bend, OR
   Average Salary: $40,300
   Bend blends outdoor adventure with a growing food scene. Cooks can thrive in gastropubs like 10 Barrel Brewing, crafting inventive dishes while enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.
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9. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $40,180
   Los Angeles offers immense diversity in food, from street tacos to exquisite fine dining. Line cooks here can gain invaluable experience at establishments like Bestia or n/naka.
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10. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $39,840
    Greeley combines small-town charm with a variety of dining options. Working in local favorites like The Crabtree or The Ranch allows cooks to create wholesome meals with community ties.
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1. Lakefield Veterinary Group
   Average Salary: $200,000
   At Lakefield Veterinary Group, Line Cooks play a crucial role in providing nutritious meals for both staff and clients. The group primarily operates in veterinary clinics, offering competitive pay and a unique environment for culinary professionals.
   




2. U.S. Government
   Average Salary: $66,000
   Line Cooks working for the U.S. Government can find opportunities in various federal facilities and cafeterias. These positions often come with stable hours, benefits, and a chance to serve those who serve the nation.
   




3. Apple
   Average Salary: $60,798
   Apple provides a dynamic setting for Line Cooks, especially at their corporate campuses. Employees benefit from innovative practices and an inclusive environment, making it an attractive place to work.
   




4. Marriott Vacations Worldwide
   Average Salary: $55,079
   At Marriott Vacations Worldwide, Line Cooks work to deliver exceptional dining experiences at luxury resorts and vacation properties. The company values teamwork and offers opportunities for growth across various locations.
   




5. Cavallo Point
   Average Salary: $54,514
   Cavallo Point, located near the Golden Gate Bridge, employs Line Cooks in a beautiful setting. Cooks here create high-quality dishes while enjoying the supportive and collaborative environment of a boutique hotel.
   




6. Kaiser Permanente
   Average Salary: $51,655
   Kaiser Permanente offers Line Cook positions in their health care facilities. Cooks prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff, contributing to the overall wellness focus of the organization.
   




7. 1 Hotels
   Average Salary: $51,184
   1 Hotels emphasizes sustainability and wellness, making it a unique workplace for Line Cooks. Employees create dishes using locally sourced ingredients at locations like Miami and Brooklyn.
   




8. STAYPINEAPPLE
   Average Salary: $49,984
   STAYPINEAPPLE is known for its playful approach to hospitality. Line Cooks at these boutique hotels work collaboratively to deliver delicious and creative food offerings in welcoming environments.
   




9. Four Seasons
   Average Salary: $49,474
   Line Cooks at Four Seasons work in some of the world's most luxurious hotels. Employees enjoy a passionate culinary team and endless opportunities for career development across various global locations.
   




10. Din Tai Fung
    Average Salary: $48,811
    Din Tai Fung is famous for its dumplings and Asian cuisine. Line Cooks here are part of a fast-paced kitchen dedicated to quality and flavor, with locations in cities across the U.S.
    

To earn more as a line cook, focus on these five key factors:

1. Gain Experience: Work in different types of kitchens. Experience in high-end restaurants often leads to higher pay.
2. Expand Your Skills: Learn new cooking techniques and cuisines. Specializing in a certain area can make you more valuable.
3. Build Your Network: Connect with other chefs and industry professionals. Networking can open doors to better job opportunities.
4. Seek Additional Certifications: Consider taking courses in food safety or culinary skills. Certifications can enhance your resume and increase your earning potential.
5. Negotiate Your Salary: Don’t hesitate to discuss pay when accepting a new job. Research pay scales in your area to support your case.