Cook Salary in Golden, CO

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Golden, CO?

The average salary for a Cook is $39,355 per year in Golden, CO.

In Golden, Colorado, cooks can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a cook in this area is around $39,355. This figure can vary based on experience, the type of establishment, and the specific role within the kitchen. Cooks in Golden often work in a variety of settings, including restaurants, hotels, and catering services, which can influence their earnings.

Factors that can affect a cook's salary include:

  • Years of experience
  • Specialization in certain cuisines
  • The size and type of the employer
  • Additional skills such as pastry or bartending

Cooks who gain more experience or develop specialized skills may see their salary increase over time. Working in high-end restaurants or larger establishments can also lead to higher pay.

Cook jobs in Golden, CO

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Golden, CO?

Cooks near Golden, CO, can find some of the best pay in nearby cities like Englewood, Aurora, and Denver. Englewood offers the highest average salary, making it a top choice for those in the culinary field. Aurora and Denver also provide competitive salaries, offering excellent opportunities for career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Golden, CO, highlighting Englewood, CO with the highest at $41,614 and Centennial, CO with the lowest at $37,263.
  1. Englewood, CO
    Average Salary: $41,614
    In Englewood, culinary professionals thrive in a vibrant dining scene. With a mix of upscale restaurants and casual eateries, cooks enjoy diverse opportunities. Notable places include The Kitchen at 18th & Stout and The Old Spaghetti Factory.
    Find Cook jobs in Englewood, CO


  2. Aurora, CO
    Average Salary: $40,800
    Aurora offers a dynamic environment for cooks, with a variety of dining options from family-owned spots to trendy restaurants. The city's growing food culture provides a fertile ground for culinary creativity. Popular spots include The Melting Pot and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Aurora, CO


  3. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $40,673
    Denver's culinary landscape is rich and varied, offering cooks a chance to work in both traditional and innovative settings. The city's diverse food scene includes establishments like The Capital Grille and The Southern Grist Brewing Co. Cooks can expect to engage with a wide range of cuisines.
    Find Cook jobs in Denver, CO


  4. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $39,848
    Boulder's health-conscious community supports a thriving market for fresh, local ingredients. Cooks here enjoy working in environments that emphasize quality and sustainability. Notable places include The Laughing Goat and The Fox and the Goat.
    Find Cook jobs in Boulder, CO


  5. Greenwood Village, CO
    Average Salary: $38,680
    Greenwood Village provides a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fine dining. Cooks here work in elegant settings, preparing dishes for discerning palates. Restaurants like The Capital Grille and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar offer upscale culinary experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Greenwood Village, CO


  6. Lafayette, CO
    Average Salary: $38,406
    Lafayette's dining scene is a blend of casual and upscale, offering cooks a variety of settings to work in. The city's community-focused atmosphere supports a range of eateries. Popular spots include The Old Spaghetti Factory and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Lafayette, CO


  7. Highlands Ranch, CO
    Average Salary: $38,259
    Highlands Ranch offers a mix of family-friendly and upscale dining options. Cooks here enjoy a supportive environment with a focus on quality and service. Notable places include The Melting Pot and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO


  8. Littleton, CO
    Average Salary: $37,770
    Littleton's dining scene is vibrant and diverse, providing cooks with many opportunities to explore different cuisines. The city's growing food culture supports a range of restaurants. Popular spots include The Old Spaghetti Factory and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Littleton, CO


  9. Longmont, CO
    Average Salary: $37,667
    Longmont's culinary scene is a mix of casual and upscale dining. Cooks here enjoy working in a community that values fresh, local ingredients. Notable establishments include The Melting Pot and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Longmont, CO


  10. Centennial, CO
    Average Salary: $37,263
    Centennial offers a dynamic dining environment with a variety of restaurants. Cooks here can explore both traditional and innovative cuisines. Popular spots include The Old Spaghetti Factory and The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Centennial, CO

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Golden, CO?

Sodexo offers the highest pay for Cook jobs in Golden, CO, with an average salary of $42,720. Unidine and Windy Saddle Cafe also provide competitive salaries, around $41,500 and $40,970, respectively. These companies value their culinary staff and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Golden, CO, highlighting Sodexo with the highest at $42,720 and Sonic Drive-In with the lowest at $26,190.
  1. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $42,720
    Sodexo offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO, with a focus on providing quality meals in various settings. They operate in schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. Their Cook positions emphasize teamwork and customer service.


  2. Unidine
    Average Salary: $41,500
    Unidine provides Cook jobs in Golden, CO, with a strong emphasis on culinary excellence. They serve diverse communities in healthcare facilities and senior living centers. Cooks here enjoy a supportive work environment.


  3. Windy Saddle Cafe
    Average Salary: $40,970
    Windy Saddle Cafe offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for their customers. Cooks here work in a casual, friendly setting, preparing delicious meals.


  4. Cornerstone Management Services
    Average Salary: $40,750
    Cornerstone Management Services provides Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They manage dining services in various locations, including schools and hospitals. Cooks here value teamwork and quality food preparation.


  5. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $38,691
    Marriott International offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They provide dining experiences in hotels and resorts. Cooks here enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.


  6. Outback Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $36,280
    Outback Steakhouse offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They focus on serving hearty, flavorful meals in a lively atmosphere. Cooks here work in a fast-paced environment, emphasizing teamwork and customer satisfaction.


  7. Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard
    Average Salary: $36,016
    Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They provide a fun, family-friendly dining experience. Cooks here enjoy a casual work environment, preparing delicious burgers and frozen treats.


  8. Sonic Drive-In
    Average Salary: $26,190
    Sonic Drive-In offers Cook jobs in Golden, CO. They focus on serving classic American fast food. Cooks here work in a fast-paced setting, emphasizing efficiency and customer service.

Currently 21,006 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Cook
21,006 Job Openings