Cook Cook Salary in Cedar Falls, IA

Cook Salary in Cedar Falls, IA

Updated on Aug 21, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Cedar Falls, IA?

The average salary for a Cook is $32,320 per year in Cedar Falls, IA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA, showing an average salary of $32,320 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA, showing an average salary of $2,693 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA, showing an average salary of $622 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA, showing an average salary of $16 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Cedar Falls, IA, cooks find a range of opportunities. They earn different salaries based on experience and type of work. The average yearly salary for a cook in this area is around $32,320. Some cooks may earn less, while others can make more, depending on their skills and the place they work.

Salary for cooks in Cedar Falls varies. The lower end of the scale might start at $28,000 for someone just starting out. As a cook gains more experience, they can earn up to $36,540 a year. This range offers a good chance for cooks to increase their earnings over time. Many cooks find that with added experience, their salary can rise significantly.

Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA
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What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Cedar Falls, IA?

Cooks in Independence, IA, can expect the highest average salary near Cedar Falls, IA. With an average salary of $36,206, this city offers great opportunities for those in the culinary field. Aspiring cooks should consider looking for positions in Independence for the best financial prospects.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Cedar Falls, IA, highlighting Independence, IA with the highest at $36,206 and Manchester, IA with the lowest at $33,892.

  1. Independence, IA
    Average Salary: $36,206
    In Independence, IA, culinary roles thrive in family-owned restaurants and local eateries. Workers enjoy a tight-knit community and plenty of opportunities to showcase their cooking skills. Notable places include the Independence Café and local diners.
    Find Cook jobs in Independence, IA


  2. Decorah, IA
    Average Salary: $35,532
    Decorah, IA offers a vibrant culinary scene with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Cooks here work in charming settings, often in well-known spots like the Decorah Coffee Shop and cozy bistros. The picturesque town enhances the dining experience for both cooks and patrons.
    Find Cook jobs in Decorah, IA


  3. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $34,687
    West Des Moines, IA has a dynamic food industry with many upscale restaurants and hotels. Cooks can find rewarding positions in establishments like The Westin and local fine dining restaurants. The fast-paced environment offers plenty of growth opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  4. Marion, IA
    Average Salary: $34,656
    Marion, IA features a variety of dining options that value skilled culinary professionals. Jobs here include working in community-focused restaurants and local cafes. The supportive community atmosphere makes for a pleasant work environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Marion, IA


  5. Iowa City, IA
    Average Salary: $34,576
    In Iowa City, IA, cooks benefit from the university setting and diverse dining scene. Positions can be found in popular student haunts and local family restaurants. The city's lively culture enriches the culinary experience.
    Find Cook jobs in Iowa City, IA


  6. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $34,523
    Cedar Rapids, IA has a bustling food scene with numerous restaurants and cafes. Cooks here work in both casual and upscale dining establishments, enjoying a city that supports local businesses and culinary innovation.
    Find Cook jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  7. Waverly, IA
    Average Salary: $34,139
    Waverly, IA offers a welcoming culinary environment with plenty of opportunities in family-run restaurants. Workers enjoy a slower pace and the chance to create personal connections with regular customers. Local eateries provide a supportive and friendly workplace.
    Find Cook jobs in Waverly, IA


  8. Grinnell, IA
    Average Salary: $34,105
    Grinnell, IA has a charming and tight-knit community, with many restaurants seeking skilled cooks. Positions here often include working in local diners and community cafes, providing a warm and inviting work environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Grinnell, IA


  9. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $33,917
    Ames, IA presents a dynamic culinary landscape with a focus on student-friendly eateries and local favorites. Cooks here thrive in a vibrant community, working in diverse settings from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
    Find Cook jobs in Ames, IA


  10. Manchester, IA
    Average Salary: $33,892
    In Manchester, IA, culinary professionals find opportunities in a variety of settings, from cozy cafes to larger family restaurants. The town’s supportive community environment makes for a pleasant and rewarding work experience.
    Find Cook jobs in Manchester, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Cedar Falls, IA?

Cooks in Cedar Falls, IA can find good pay at the University of Northern Iowa, where the average salary reaches $35,580. Applebee's also offers a competitive salary of $33,000 annually for cooks. Care Initiatives, HuHot Mongolian Grill, Carlos O'Kelly's, and Village Inn provide solid compensation as well, with salaries around $32,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Cedar Falls, IA, highlighting University of Northern Iowa with the highest at $35,580 and Raising Cane's with the lowest at $28,000.

  1. University of Northern Iowa
    Average Salary: $35,580
    The University of Northern Iowa offers Cook jobs within its campus dining services. This provides opportunities to prepare meals for students and staff. The university is located in Cedar Falls, IA. The campus is vibrant, creating a dynamic work environment for cooks.


  2. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $33,000
    Applebee's is a popular family-style restaurant chain with several locations in Cedar Falls, IA. Cooks at Applebee's prepare a variety of dishes to serve a wide range of customers. The work environment is fast-paced and focuses on teamwork.


  3. Care Initiatives
    Average Salary: $32,333
    Care Initiatives operates in Cedar Falls, IA, providing healthcare services. Cooks here prepare meals for patients and staff. This role is crucial in ensuring that everyone gets nutritious and appealing meals. The company values are centered around care and compassion.


  4. HuHot Mongolian Grill
    Average Salary: $32,075
    HuHot Mongolian Grill is a restaurant chain with locations in Cedar Falls, IA. Cooks here prepare and cook food in front of customers, offering a unique dining experience. The job involves fast-paced work and creativity in meal preparation.


  5. Carlos O'Kelly's
    Average Salary: $32,000
    Carlos O'Kelly's is a well-known local dining spot in Cedar Falls, IA. Cooks here prepare traditional American fare. The restaurant is known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality food. It provides a welcoming environment for cooks to excel.


  6. Village Inn
    Average Salary: $30,540
    Village Inn is a family-style restaurant with multiple locations in Cedar Falls, IA. Cooks prepare a wide variety of dishes to serve a diverse clientele. The work environment is warm and supportive, focusing on delivering great customer service.


  7. Raising Cane's
    Average Salary: $28,000
    Raising Cane's is a fast-casual restaurant known for its chicken fingers. With locations in Cedar Falls, IA, Cooks here prepare and serve these popular items. The job requires efficiency and attention to detail in a fast-paced setting.

Currently 13,261 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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