How much does a Cook make in Columbus, MS?
In Columbus, MS, Cooks have a rewarding career. On average, a Cook earns about $26,700 per year. This salary can vary based on experience and the type of place they work in. Cooks in restaurants and hotels may earn a bit more compared to those working in schools or hospitals.
Most Cooks in Columbus make between $24,373 and $29,909 annually. The best-paid Cooks, who work in top restaurants, can earn up to $30,700 each year. A small number of Cooks might earn less, around $22,000, usually due to being new to the job or working in a smaller setting. A few may reach the higher end of the salary range with extra skills or more experience.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Columbus, MS?

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Biloxi, MS
Average Salary: $30,421
In Biloxi, culinary talent shines with the vibrant food scene. Cooks find opportunities in lively restaurants and hotels, creating fresh dishes for tourists and locals alike. Key employers include the Beau Rivage and the Borgata.
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Oxford, MS
Average Salary: $28,194
Oxford offers a unique blend of Southern charm and college town energy. Cooks here work in student-friendly cafes and campus dining facilities. Ole Miss provides many job opportunities for skilled cooks.
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Hattiesburg, MS
Average Salary: $27,662
Hattiesburg's dining scene thrives on fresh, local ingredients. Cooks can find work in family-owned eateries and university settings. Key places include downtown restaurants and the University of Southern Mississippi.
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Gulfport, MS
Average Salary: $27,625
Gulfport's coastal location means a focus on seafood. Cooks here prepare delicious dishes for beachgoers and locals. Popular spots include beachfront restaurants and casinos like the Hard Rock Hotel.
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Tupelo, MS
Average Salary: $27,595
Tupelo offers a friendly atmosphere with a mix of traditional and modern eateries. Cooks can work in family-run restaurants and local cafes. Notable places include the Tupelo Auto Museum's café.
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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $27,594
Jackson's diverse culinary landscape provides a range of opportunities. Cooks can find work in upscale restaurants and popular food chains. Key employers include the Hilton Jackson and the Capital City Restaurant.
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Vicksburg, MS
Average Salary: $27,457
Vicksburg boasts a rich food heritage, with many opportunities in historic restaurants and hotels. Cooks here enjoy preparing classic Southern dishes for visitors and locals. Key employers include the Riverwalk Casino and the Old Mississippi Publishing Company.
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Meridian, MS
Average Salary: $27,154
Meridian's dining scene features a mix of Southern comfort food and modern cuisine. Cooks can find work in local restaurants and hotels. Key places include the Meridian Museum of Art and the Magnolia Restaurant.
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Starkville, MS
Average Salary: $26,368
Starkville's vibrant college town atmosphere offers many culinary opportunities. Cooks can work in student-friendly restaurants and campus dining facilities. Mississippi State University provides numerous job opportunities.
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West Point, MS
Average Salary: $26,339
West Point offers a close-knit community with a variety of dining options. Cooks here can work in local restaurants and community cafes, preparing tasty meals for residents. Notable spots include the 1856 Inn and West Point Brewing Company.
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What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Columbus, MS?

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Cracker Barrel
Average Salary: $30,280
Cracker Barrel offers rewarding Cook jobs in their Columbus, MS location. They provide a warm, family-friendly environment. Their kitchens serve delicious, home-style meals to guests every day. This company values experience and skill, offering competitive wages.
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Applebee's
Average Salary: $28,000
Applebee's provides Cook positions with good pay in Columbus, MS. They focus on serving quality food in a lively atmosphere. Cooks work in busy kitchens, preparing a variety of meals. The company offers opportunities for advancement and skill development.
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Morrison Healthcare
Average Salary: $25,500
Morrison Healthcare employs Cooks in their Columbus, MS facilities. They work in healthcare settings, preparing meals for patients and staff. This role requires attention to detail and a focus on health and nutrition. The company values the important work Cooks do.
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Sonic Drive-In
Average Salary: $22,950
Sonic Drive-In offers Cook jobs in Columbus, MS, with a fun, fast-paced work environment. They serve classic American fare in their drive-in and dine-in spaces. Cooks work quickly to keep up with orders. This role is great for those who enjoy a lively kitchen atmosphere.
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Mugshots Grill and Bar
Average Salary: $22,390
Mugshots Grill and Bar provides Cook jobs in Columbus, MS. They offer a casual dining experience with a focus on fun and relaxation. Cooks prepare meals for guests in a laid-back setting. This role is ideal for those who enjoy a social work environment.
What are the best paying Cook related jobs in Columbus, MS?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $43,976
This role works in a bustling restaurant to oversee staff and ensure smooth operations. Managers coordinate with chefs and servers to keep customers happy. In this role, one may work for establishments such as The Cozy Corner or Chef's Delight.
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Dietary Manager
Average Salary: $38,000
They plan menus to meet specific dietary needs. This role requires a deep understanding of nutrition and meal preparation. People in this position may find work with local healthcare facilities such as Columbus General Hospital.
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Catering Manager
Average Salary: $35,000
They organize and manage events, ensuring food meets high standards. This job involves coordinating with clients and staff to deliver seamless service. Companies like Eventful Eats or Party Platters may seek these professionals.
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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $34,167
This position assists the head chef in managing kitchen operations. Sous Chefs help create menus and oversee kitchen staff. They may find opportunities with high-end restaurants like The Gourmet Bistro.
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Baker
Average Salary: $31,473
This role specializes in creating pastries and breads. Bakers work in commercial kitchens and must follow recipes precisely. They may work for bakeries like Sweet Treats Bakery or local cafés.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,821
They prepare coffee and other beverages in cafés. Baristas need excellent customer service skills and attention to detail. They may find jobs at places like The Coffee Corner or local chain coffee shops.
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Caterer
Average Salary: $29,127
They handle the logistics of providing food for events. Caterers work closely with clients to ensure their needs are met. Companies such as Event Catering Services may employ these professionals.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $28,005
They prepare food quickly and efficiently in a commercial kitchen. Line Cooks must work well under pressure and follow recipes. They may work for restaurants like The Busy Kitchen or local diners.
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Dietary Aide
Average Salary: $25,080
They help prepare meals in settings such as hospitals or schools. Aides follow specific dietary instructions and assist in food preparation. They may find opportunities with local healthcare facilities.
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