Cook Cook Salary in Athens, TN

Cook Salary in Athens, TN

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Athens, TN?

The average salary for a Cook is $29,306 per year in Athens, TN.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Athens, TN, showing an average salary of $29,306 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Athens, TN, showing an average salary of $2,442 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Athens, TN, showing an average salary of $564 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Athens, TN, showing an average salary of $14 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Athens, Tennessee, the average yearly salary for a Cook is around $29,306. Cooks can expect to earn between $24,150 and $32,700 each year. This range varies based on the type of establishment they work in and their level of experience.

Cooks in Athens who work in fast-food restaurants or small cafes may earn closer to the lower end of this salary range. Those who work in hotels, restaurants, or catering companies may earn at the higher end. Experience plays a big role in earning potential. Cooks with several years of experience in the industry can often earn more than those who are just starting out.

Cook jobs in Athens, TN
View all Cook jobs in Athens, TN

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Athens, TN?

Cooks in the Athens, TN area can find lucrative job opportunities in nearby cities. Signal Mountain offers the highest average salary for cooks at around $33,625 annually. Sevierville and Maryville also provide attractive salaries, making these cities ideal for job seekers in the culinary field. These cities boast vibrant dining scenes and plenty of job prospects. Cooks can expect competitive pay and a chance to work in diverse kitchen environments. Exploring job openings in these areas may lead to a rewarding career.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Athens, TN, highlighting Signal Mountain, TN with the highest at $33,625 and Crossville, TN with the lowest at $29,984.

  1. Signal Mountain, TN
    Average Salary: $33,625
    In Signal Mountain, being a cook means preparing meals in a relaxed setting. This picturesque area offers great restaurants and cafes where your culinary skills can shine. Notable places like the Scenic City Brewing Company provide opportunities to work alongside seasoned chefs.
    Find Cook jobs in Signal Mountain, TN


  2. Sevierville, TN
    Average Salary: $32,796
    Sevierville has a thriving tourism industry. As a cook here, you'll prepare delicious meals for visitors from around the world. Many local hotels and restaurants seek skilled cooks to create memorable dining experiences. Places like Dollywood’s Splash Country offer great opportunities to grow your culinary career.
    Find Cook jobs in Sevierville, TN


  3. Maryville, TN
    Average Salary: $32,647
    Maryville has a vibrant food scene. Working as a cook here means creating unique dishes for a diverse crowd. The area’s family-friendly atmosphere and local eateries provide a perfect environment to enhance your cooking skills. Restaurants like El Camino Real focus on quality, offering a great platform to develop your craft.
    Find Cook jobs in Maryville, TN


  4. Chattanooga, TN
    Average Salary: $31,487
    Chattanooga offers a dynamic culinary environment. Cooks here can find work in various settings from casual diners to fine dining establishments. The city's rich history and modern amenities create a unique backdrop for your cooking career. Places such as The Terminal Station Restaurant provide exciting opportunities to grow professionally.
    Find Cook jobs in Chattanooga, TN


  5. Knoxville, TN
    Average Salary: $31,216
    Knoxville is known for its lively community and diverse dining options. Working as a cook here means catering to a broad audience. The university presence adds to the demand for talented chefs. Renowned places like South City Kitchen provide a chance to hone your culinary talents in a dynamic setting.
    Find Cook jobs in Knoxville, TN


  6. Athens, OH
    Average Salary: $31,194
    Athens offers a close-knit community with a strong focus on education. Working as a cook here means serving both students and locals. The charming, college-town atmosphere provides numerous opportunities to develop your skills. Restaurants like 152 Taproom & Kitchen offer a welcoming environment for culinary growth.
    Find Cook jobs in Athens, OH


  7. Athens, GA
    Average Salary: $30,900
    Athens, GA, is a vibrant city known for its music and arts scene. Cooks here can find work in various settings, from cozy cafes to lively restaurants. The city's creative energy provides a unique backdrop for your culinary career. Places like The Georgia Theater offer exciting opportunities to showcase your talent.
    Find Cook jobs in Athens, GA


  8. Johnson City, TN
    Average Salary: $30,283
    Johnson City offers a welcoming environment for culinary professionals. Working as a cook here means creating delicious meals for a diverse community. The area’s blend of small-town charm and urban amenities offers numerous opportunities to grow your skills. Restaurants like The Downtown Grille provide a great platform for career development.
    Find Cook jobs in Johnson City, TN


  9. Oak Ridge, TN
    Average Salary: $30,202
    Oak Ridge has a tight-knit community with a focus on science and technology. Working as a cook here means serving employees and visitors in a professional setting. The city's unique environment offers opportunities to work in institutional kitchens. Places like the Y-12 National Security Complex provide a chance to develop your culinary skills in a specialized field.
    Find Cook jobs in Oak Ridge, TN


  10. Crossville, TN
    Average Salary: $29,984
    Crossville offers a peaceful setting with plenty of outdoor activities. Working as a cook here means serving a close-knit community. The area’s natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for your culinary career. Local restaurants like Mountain Made Cafe offer a welcoming environment to showcase your talents.
    Find Cook jobs in Crossville, TN

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Athens, TN?

Cooks in Athens, TN, have several good employers to consider. K-VA-T Food City leads with an average salary of $31,633. Cracker Barrel pays a close second at $30,442 per year. Both companies provide a stable and respectable income for their culinary staff.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Athens, TN, highlighting K-VA-T Food City with the highest at $31,633 and Sonic Drive-In with the lowest at $23,913.

  1. K-VA-T Food City
    Average Salary: $31,633
    K-VA-T Food City offers a range of Cook positions across multiple locations in Athens, TN. Employees work in well-equipped kitchens to prepare meals for guests. The company emphasizes teamwork and provides opportunities for professional growth.


  2. Cracker Barrel
    Average Salary: $30,442
    Cracker Barrel provides Cook roles in Athens, TN, focusing on preparing American cuisine. The company values a warm, family-friendly atmosphere and offers competitive wages. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and chances for advancement.


  3. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $28,000
    Applebee's has Cook positions available in Athens, TN, where employees prepare a variety of menu items in a casual dining setting. The company offers a positive work culture and flexible scheduling. It’s a great place for those looking for a dynamic kitchen environment.


  4. HHS
    Average Salary: $27,000
    HHS offers Cook positions in Athens, TN, where employees prepare meals for patients and staff in a healthcare setting. The role involves following strict hygiene standards and working closely with medical teams. It’s an ideal choice for those interested in a unique, supportive work environment.


  5. Sonic Drive-In
    Average Salary: $23,913
    Sonic Drive-In provides Cook roles in Athens, TN, focusing on fast and friendly service. Employees prepare fast food in a drive-in setting. The company values teamwork and offers a lively work atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced environment.

Currently 13,588 Cook job openings, nationwide.

View Cook Jobs in Athens, TN

How's the job market for a Cook in the US?

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