Cook Salary in Gurnee, IL

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
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City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Gurnee, IL?

The average salary for a Cook is $32,711 per year in Gurnee, IL.

In Gurnee, IL, Cooks can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for Cooks in this area is around $32,711. This figure can vary depending on experience, the type of establishment, and specific duties. Cooks in Gurnee often work in restaurants, hotels, or catering services, which can influence their earnings.

Cooks in Gurnee can see their salary increase with more experience and specialized skills. For example, those who work in high-end restaurants or have experience in a particular cuisine may earn more. Additionally, some Cooks may receive tips, which can add to their overall income. The cost of living in Gurnee is moderate, making this salary quite attractive for those looking to start or advance in their culinary career.

Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Gurnee, IL?

Cooks in Zion, IL, earn the highest salaries near Gurnee, IL. The average salary for cooks is $37,536. This makes it a great place to find a well-paying job. Cooks in nearby cities like Rolling Meadows and Lake Villa also earn competitive wages.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Gurnee, IL, highlighting Zion, IL with the highest at $37,536 and Elmhurst, IL with the lowest at $35,774.
  1. Zion, IL
    Average Salary: $37,536
    In Zion, IL, culinary professionals find a vibrant community with many local restaurants. Opportunities exist in family-owned eateries and larger establishments. Nearby companies like Bon Appétit offer diverse roles.
    Find Cook jobs in Zion, IL


  2. Rolling Meadows, IL
    Average Salary: $37,374
    Rolling Meadows, IL, provides a range of culinary positions in upscale dining and casual eateries. Job seekers can explore roles at prominent restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory. The area's diverse dining scene offers various opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Rolling Meadows, IL


  3. Lake Villa, IL
    Average Salary: $37,143
    Lake Villa, IL, offers a mix of local and chain restaurants. Cooks can find work in cozy diners and larger establishments. Companies like McDonald's provide steady employment with growth potential.
    Find Cook jobs in Lake Villa, IL


  4. Buffalo Grove, IL
    Average Salary: $36,906
    Buffalo Grove, IL, has a growing food scene with many family-owned restaurants. Cooks can work in casual dining spots or upscale venues. Local favorites offer a welcoming environment for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL


  5. North Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $36,530
    North Chicago, IL, features a variety of dining options from local cafes to larger restaurants. Cooks can find positions in both casual and fine dining settings. The area's diverse culinary landscape offers many opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in North Chicago, IL


  6. Lake Forest, IL
    Average Salary: $36,346
    Lake Forest, IL, boasts a sophisticated dining scene with upscale restaurants. Cooks can work in elegant settings and learn from experienced chefs. Companies like The Ritz-Carlton offer prestigious positions.
    Find Cook jobs in Lake Forest, IL


  7. Antioch, IL
    Average Salary: $36,333
    Antioch, IL, has a mix of casual and fine dining options. Cooks can find roles in family-owned restaurants and larger establishments. The area's diverse food culture provides many opportunities for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Antioch, IL


  8. Libertyville, IL
    Average Salary: $35,919
    Libertyville, IL, offers a range of culinary positions in both casual and upscale dining. Cooks can work in local favorites and larger restaurants. The area's vibrant food scene provides many opportunities for growth.
    Find Cook jobs in Libertyville, IL


  9. Hoffman Estates, IL
    Average Salary: $35,856
    Hoffman Estates, IL, has a thriving food scene with many dining options. Cooks can find work in both casual and fine dining settings. The area's diverse culinary landscape offers many opportunities for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Hoffman Estates, IL


  10. Elmhurst, IL
    Average Salary: $35,774
    Elmhurst, IL, features a mix of local and chain restaurants. Cooks can work in casual dining spots or upscale venues. The area's diverse food culture provides many opportunities for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Elmhurst, IL

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Gurnee, IL?

Job seekers looking for cook positions in Gurnee, IL, can find competitive salaries at several top-rated companies. Red Lobster offers an annual salary of $35,667, making it the highest-paying option. Other notable employers include Quest Food Management Services, T.G.I Fridays, and Kiddie Academy, all providing attractive compensation packages. These companies offer a chance to work in a dynamic environment while earning a solid income.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL, highlighting Red Lobster with the highest at $35,667 and Marcus Theatres with the lowest at $29,725.
  1. Red Lobster
    Average Salary: $35,667
    Red Lobster offers Cook jobs with a focus on seafood. They have a location in Gurnee, IL, where they serve fresh seafood dishes. Cooks are part of a team that prepares meals for guests and ensures a high-quality dining experience.


  2. Quest Food Management Services
    Average Salary: $33,589
    Quest Food Management Services provides Cook positions in Gurnee, IL. They manage dining services for various locations. Cooks work in a fast-paced environment, preparing meals for large groups and ensuring food quality and safety.


  3. T.G.I Fridays
    Average Salary: $33,432
    T.G.I Fridays has Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL. They offer a casual dining experience with a variety of dishes. Cooks prepare meals that cater to a diverse customer base, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable dining experience.


  4. Kiddie Academy
    Average Salary: $32,800
    Kiddie Academy provides Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL. They focus on early childhood education and care. Cooks prepare nutritious meals for children, ensuring they receive healthy and balanced food options.


  5. Raising Cane's
    Average Salary: $32,500
    Raising Cane's offers Cook positions in Gurnee, IL. They are known for their chicken fingers and Cajun-style food. Cooks work in a fast-paced environment, preparing meals quickly and efficiently to meet customer demand.


  6. Cracker Barrel
    Average Salary: $31,956
    Cracker Barrel offers Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL. They provide a family-friendly dining experience with American cuisine. Cooks prepare a variety of dishes, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests.


  7. Bickford Senior Living
    Average Salary: $31,383
    Bickford Senior Living offers Cook positions in Gurnee, IL. They provide care and support for seniors. Cooks prepare meals that cater to the dietary needs of elderly residents, ensuring a nutritious and enjoyable dining experience.


  8. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
    Average Salary: $31,000
    Lou Malnati's Pizzeria offers Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL. They are known for their deep-dish pizza. Cooks work in a team to prepare pizzas, ensuring each dish meets the restaurant's high standards.


  9. Denny's
    Average Salary: $30,675
    Denny's offers Cook positions in Gurnee, IL. They provide a casual dining experience with a variety of dishes. Cooks prepare meals for guests, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable dining experience.


  10. Marcus Theatres
    Average Salary: $29,725
    Marcus Theatres offers Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL. They provide a movie theater experience with concession stand services. Cooks prepare snacks and meals for moviegoers, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.

Currently 21,006 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Cook
21,006 Job Openings