Line Cook Salaries

Line cooks play a vital role in the kitchen, and their earnings reflect their importance. On average, a line cook makes about $34,896 per year. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment.

Newer line cooks may start with a salary around $23,500, while those with more experience can earn closer to $47,300. The following highlights the salary range for line cooks:

- At the lower end, starting salaries begin around $23,500. - With a couple of years of experience, a cook can make about $29,991. - As skills and expertise grow, salaries can reach up to $36,482. - The most seasoned line cooks may earn around $47,300 or more.

This salary range shows that hard work and dedication lead to growth in this career. The culinary field offers plenty of opportunities for line cooks to advance and increase their earnings over time.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $45,456
   Working as a cook in San Francisco offers a chance to be part of a vibrant food scene. Many celebrated restaurants, like Tartine Bakery and Zuni Café, focus on fresh, local ingredients. Cooks here often enjoy the creativity that comes with diverse culinary styles.
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2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $45,110
   Seattle's culinary community thrives on its fresh seafood and coffee culture. Cooks can find exciting opportunities at renowned places like Canlis and Pike Place Market's eateries. The environment is both dynamic and welcoming for those passionate about food.
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3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $41,930
   In San Jose, cooks play a key role in a diverse culinary landscape that represents many cultures. The city's growing food market includes popular restaurants like The Grill on the Alley. Cooks benefit from a lively atmosphere and an emphasis on innovation.
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4. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $41,823
   Cooks in Santa Rosa can enjoy the region’s agricultural richness. With farms just outside the city, restaurants like John Ash & Co. make use of farm-fresh ingredients. The local dining scene aims to deliver a unique experience that focuses on quality.
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5. Boulder, CO
   Average Salary: $41,748
   Boulder is known for its health-conscious dining options, making it an exciting place for cooks. Restaurants like The Kitchen embrace sustainability and fresh produce. Working here allows chefs to innovate and connect with a community that values good food.
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6. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $40,927
   Boston's culinary landscape is historic and rich, with seafood and classic dishes taking center stage. Top restaurants like Oleana showcase the city's love for culture on a plate. Cooks find pride in crafting dishes that represent Boston’s heritage.
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7. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $40,916
   In Denver, cooks thrive in a city that celebrates creativity and local flavor. Restaurants such as Mercantile Dining & Provision highlight farm-to-table practices. The atmosphere encourages collaboration and the sharing of culinary ideas.
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8. Bend, OR
   Average Salary: $40,501
   Bend offers a relaxed vibe with a focus on local ingredients. Cooks can find rewarding opportunities at eateries like 10 Barrel Brewing Co. The city's growing food scene promotes a strong sense of community and a love for outdoor dining.
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9. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $40,254
   In Los Angeles, cooks engage with a dynamic and diverse food culture. Restaurants like Bestia feature a mix of flavors from around the world. The city's culinary scene is fast-paced and exciting, offering cooks the chance to experiment with global dishes.
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10. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $39,770
    Greeley boasts a friendly atmosphere with a range of dining options. Local restaurants like The Kress offer cooks opportunities to grow and develop their skills. The community supports local ingredients, making it a great place for culinary enthusiasts.
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1. Lakefield Veterinary Group
   Average Salary: $200,000
   Lakefield Veterinary Group offers competitive salaries for line cooks. The company focuses on creating a positive work environment for its staff. They operate primarily in various locations across the U.S.
   




2. U.S. Government
   Average Salary: $66,000
   The U.S. Government provides stable job opportunities for line cooks with solid benefits. Positions are available in many federal facilities, ensuring job security and good pay across various states.
   




3. Apple
   Average Salary: $61,574
   Apple employs line cooks in their corporate cafeterias, ensuring high standards of quality and innovation. Working at Apple allows you to be part of a creative team located in tech hubs like Cupertino and Austin.
   




4. Marriott Vacations Worldwide
   Average Salary: $57,878
   Marriott Vacations Worldwide values its culinary team and offers competitive wages for line cooks. They operate numerous vacation resorts and hotels across popular travel destinations.
   




5. Cavallo Point
   Average Salary: $54,590
   Cavallo Point, a renowned luxury hotel, provides a rewarding environment for line cooks. You can find opportunities in areas surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge, focusing on quality and local flavors.
   




6. Kaiser Permanente
   Average Salary: $52,309
   Kaiser Permanente employs line cooks to provide quality meals in their health facilities. They operate health care centers in multiple states, promoting health-focused culinary practices.
   




7. Four Seasons
   Average Salary: $51,013
   Four Seasons hotels are known for luxury and excellence in dining. Line cooks at Four Seasons enjoy competitive pay while working in upscale locations worldwide, including major cities and tourist destinations.
   




8. STAYPINEAPPLE
   Average Salary: $50,455
   STAYPINEAPPLE operates boutique hotels that emphasize a fun and inviting atmosphere. Line cooks here enjoy creative freedom and competitive salaries across various locations in the U.S.
   




9. 1 Hotels
   Average Salary: $50,307
   1 Hotels focuses on sustainability and fresh ingredients. Line cooks work in eco-friendly locations, providing healthy dining options in cities like Miami and New York.
   




10. Fontainebleau Las Vegas
    Average Salary: $49,693
    Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a luxury resort offering exciting culinary experiences. Line cooks at this high-profile location enjoy competitive salaries while working in a vibrant environment.
    

As a line cook, you can increase your earnings through several strategies. Focus on developing your skills, building relationships, and seeking advancement. Here are five factors that can help you earn more:

1. Enhance Your Skills: Continuously learn new cooking techniques and get certified in food safety. Training can lead to promotions and higher pay.
2. Work in High-End Establishments: Seek jobs in upscale restaurants or hotels that typically offer better pay. High-end kitchens often have more resources to pay their staff well.
3. Take on Extra Responsibilities: Volunteer for more duties, such as training new cooks or managing inventory. This shows your commitment and can lead to higher pay opportunities.
4. Network with Industry Professionals: Build connections with chefs and restaurant owners. Networking can open doors to better positions and higher salaries.
5. Negotiate Your Pay: When offered a job, do not hesitate to discuss your salary. Research average wages for your role to ensure you request a fair pay.

By focusing on these factors, you can enhance your career as a line cook and increase your earnings over time.