Cook Salary in Cary, NC

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Cary, NC?

The average salary for a Cook is $34,787 per year in Cary, NC.

In Cary, North Carolina, Cooks earn a competitive salary. The average salary for a Cook in Cary is around $34,787 per year. The range of salaries can vary, with some Cooks earning as little as $27,100 and others earning up to $40,000. This range reflects the different levels of experience and the types of establishments where Cooks work.

Cooks in Cary can expect to find employment in a variety of settings, including restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. Higher salaries often come with more experience and specialized skills. Cooks who work in upscale restaurants or hotels may earn more than those in smaller, local eateries. Additionally, those who have certifications or additional training in culinary arts may see higher earning potential. The demand for skilled Cooks in Cary remains steady, offering good opportunities for those in the field.

Cook jobs in Cary, NC

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Cary, NC?

Cooks near Cary, NC, can find good job opportunities in nearby cities. Durham and Raleigh offer some of the highest pay for these roles. Cooks in these cities can expect to earn more than those in smaller towns. For example, cooks in Durham earn about $34,338 a year, while those in Raleigh make around $33,228. These cities provide a good chance to find a well-paying job.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Cary, NC, highlighting Cary, NC with the highest at $34,787 and Clayton, NC with the lowest at $30,709.
  1. Cary, NC
    Average Salary: $34,787
    In Cary, culinary professionals thrive in a vibrant food scene. Many restaurants and cafes offer opportunities to work with fresh ingredients. Companies like Panera Bread and local favorites provide a dynamic work environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Cary, NC


  2. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $34,338
    Durham boasts a rich culinary culture. Cooks here enjoy working in a variety of settings, from upscale eateries to casual diners. Duke University and its surrounding areas create a steady demand for skilled cooks.
    Find Cook jobs in Durham, NC


  3. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $33,228
    Raleigh offers a bustling food industry with many opportunities for cooks. The city's diverse dining options range from farm-to-table restaurants to trendy cafes. Working in Raleigh means being part of a dynamic culinary community.
    Find Cook jobs in Raleigh, NC


  4. Holly Springs, NC
    Average Salary: $33,173
    Holly Springs provides a charming setting for cooks. The town's welcoming atmosphere and local eateries offer a chance to work in a close-knit community. Cooks here enjoy a slower pace and a focus on quality.
    Find Cook jobs in Holly Springs, NC


  5. Chapel Hill, NC
    Average Salary: $33,162
    Chapel Hill is known for its vibrant food scene and university presence. Cooks here work in a variety of settings, from student-friendly cafes to upscale dining establishments. The town's love for fresh, local ingredients creates a rewarding work environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Chapel Hill, NC


  6. Wake Forest, NC
    Average Salary: $32,970
    Wake Forest offers a mix of traditional and modern dining options. Cooks here enjoy a supportive community and a variety of culinary experiences. The town's growing food scene provides many opportunities for professional growth.
    Find Cook jobs in Wake Forest, NC


  7. Morrisville, NC
    Average Salary: $32,392
    Morrisville's expanding food industry offers many opportunities for cooks. The town's diverse dining options range from casual eateries to fine dining. Cooks here enjoy a vibrant and growing culinary scene.
    Find Cook jobs in Morrisville, NC


  8. Fuquay-Varina, NC
    Average Salary: $32,328
    Fuquay-Varina provides a friendly environment for cooks. The town's local eateries and growing food scene offer a chance to work in a supportive community. Cooks here enjoy a variety of culinary experiences and a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Cook jobs in Fuquay-Varina, NC


  9. Apex, NC
    Average Salary: $31,745
    Apex offers a dynamic food scene with many opportunities for cooks. The town's diverse dining options range from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Cooks here enjoy a vibrant community and a variety of culinary experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Apex, NC


  10. Clayton, NC
    Average Salary: $30,709
    Clayton provides a charming setting for cooks. The town's local eateries and growing food scene offer a chance to work in a supportive community. Cooks here enjoy a variety of culinary experiences and a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Cook jobs in Clayton, NC

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Cary, NC?

Cooks in Cary, NC, can find good pay at Rocket Farm Restaurants, where the average salary is $40,000. First Watch and The Umstead Hotel and Spa also offer competitive salaries, around $39,000. Morrison Healthcare and Eurest provide salaries close to $37,000, making them attractive options.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Cary, NC, highlighting Rocket Farm Restaurants with the highest at $40,000 and Famous Toastery with the lowest at $34,400.
  1. Rocket Farm Restaurants
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Rocket Farm Restaurants offers Cook positions with a focus on fresh and innovative cuisine. The company operates multiple locations in Cary, NC, providing a dynamic work environment. Cooks here enjoy the chance to work with a diverse menu and skilled culinary teams.


  2. First Watch
    Average Salary: $38,940
    First Watch provides Cook jobs with a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on breakfast and brunch. The company has several locations in Cary, NC, where Cooks can enjoy a supportive team and a variety of menu items. Cooks here are valued for their attention to detail and customer service skills.


  3. The Umstead Hotel and Spa
    Average Salary: $38,222
    The Umstead Hotel and Spa offers Cook positions with a focus on fine dining and hospitality. The company operates in Cary, NC, providing a luxurious work environment. Cooks here have the opportunity to create exquisite dishes and serve a discerning clientele.


  4. Morrison Healthcare
    Average Salary: $37,250
    Morrison Healthcare provides Cook jobs with a focus on healthcare and nutrition. The company operates in Cary, NC, offering a stable and supportive work environment. Cooks here prepare meals that meet specific dietary needs and contribute to the health of patients and staff.


  5. Eurest
    Average Salary: $37,083
    Eurest offers Cook positions with a focus on diverse and international cuisine. The company operates in Cary, NC, providing a multicultural work environment. Cooks here enjoy the chance to work with a variety of ingredients and cooking styles.


  6. Atria Senior Living
    Average Salary: $36,675
    Atria Senior Living provides Cook jobs with a focus on senior care and nutrition. The company operates in Cary, NC, offering a caring and supportive work environment. Cooks here prepare meals that cater to the dietary needs of seniors and contribute to their well-being.


  7. Waffle House
    Average Salary: $36,000
    Waffle House offers Cook positions with a focus on classic American breakfast and diner food. The company operates in Cary, NC, providing a fast-paced and energetic work environment. Cooks here are valued for their ability to work quickly and efficiently under pressure.


  8. On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
    Average Salary: $35,946
    On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina provides Cook jobs with a focus on Mexican cuisine. The company operates in Cary, NC, offering a vibrant and lively work environment. Cooks here enjoy the chance to work with bold and flavorful ingredients and create authentic dishes.


  9. Kisco Senior Living, LLC
    Average Salary: $34,667
    Kisco Senior Living, LLC offers Cook positions with a focus on senior care and nutrition. The company operates in Cary, NC, providing a caring and supportive work environment. Cooks here prepare meals that cater to the dietary needs of seniors and contribute to their well-being.


  10. Famous Toastery
    Average Salary: $34,400
    Famous Toastery provides Cook jobs with a focus on breakfast and brunch. The company operates in Cary, NC, offering a fun and creative work environment. Cooks here enjoy the chance to work with a variety of menu items and contribute to a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Currently 19,988 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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Cook
19,988 Job Openings