How much does a Cook make in Hershey, PA?
In Hershey, Pennsylvania, cooks enjoy a variety of opportunities. The average yearly salary for cooks in this area is around $38,106. This number can change based on the type of work and experience. Cooks often start at the lower end of the pay scale but can earn more as they gain experience and skills.
Cooks in Hershey have several options to consider. The lowest-paid 10% earn around $30,000 a year, while the top 10% can make over $51,000. Breaking it down, here are some typical salaries for cooks:
- $30,000 for the lowest-paid 10%
- $37,884 for those in the middle
- $51,680 for the highest-paid 10%
What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Hershey, PA?

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Palmyra, PA
Average Salary: $36,822
In Palmyra, PA, cooks enjoy a tight-knit community atmosphere. Local eateries value fresh, local ingredients, offering a vibrant food scene for culinary enthusiasts. Opportunities exist in family-run restaurants and community cafes.
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Quakertown, PA
Average Salary: $36,355
Quakertown, PA, is a place where culinary skills shine in family-owned businesses. With a strong focus on quality and community, cooks can find fulfilling roles in local diners and upscale restaurants. The city’s rich history adds charm to its dining culture.
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Pottstown, PA
Average Salary: $36,146
Pottstown, PA, offers a variety of cooking jobs in both casual and fine dining settings. The city’s diverse food landscape provides cooks with opportunities to experiment with various cuisines. Local markets supply fresh ingredients, enhancing the cooking experience.
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Lancaster, PA
Average Salary: $36,061
Lancaster, PA, presents a rich culinary environment with a blend of traditional and modern dining. Cooks can thrive in the vibrant food industry, known for its farm-to-table approach. The city’s historical charm adds to the dining experience for both cooks and customers.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $35,374
Allentown, PA, is a bustling city with a dynamic food scene. Cooks can find positions in various types of establishments, from local diners to upscale restaurants. The area's growing culinary culture offers plenty of opportunities for professional growth.
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Mechanicsburg, PA
Average Salary: $34,959
In Mechanicsburg, PA, cooks benefit from a community that values fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The city’s dining scene includes a mix of family-owned businesses and modern cafes, providing diverse culinary experiences for cooks to explore.
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Bethlehem, PA
Average Salary: $34,671
Bethlehem, PA, offers a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of cooking opportunities. Cooks can work in everything from traditional diners to contemporary restaurants. The city’s cultural diversity enriches its food offerings, making it a great place for culinary creativity.
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Harrisburg, PA
Average Salary: $34,541
Harrisburg, PA, provides a range of cooking jobs in both casual and fine dining establishments. The city’s dining scene is supported by a mix of local and international influences, offering cooks a diverse set of experiences. Opportunities in both the public and private sectors are available.
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Easton, PA
Average Salary: $34,469
Easton, PA, is known for its lively food culture and offers many cooking positions. Cooks can find roles in charming local restaurants and contemporary cafes. The city’s focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients provides a rewarding environment for culinary professionals.
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Carlisle, PA
Average Salary: $34,067
Carlisle, PA, presents an exciting culinary landscape with plenty of opportunities for cooks. The city’s dining establishments value creativity and quality, offering a range of positions from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Fresh, local ingredients enhance the cooking experience here.
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What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Hershey, PA?

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Milton Hershey School
Average Salary: $56,610
Milton Hershey School offers competitive salaries for Cook jobs. This school is known for its caring environment and dedication to student growth. Cooks at this location in Hershey, PA, help prepare meals for students and staff.
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First Watch
Average Salary: $40,052
First Watch provides a dynamic work environment with good pay for cooks. This restaurant chain is popular for its breakfast, lunch, and brunch options. Cooks at the Hershey location help create a warm and inviting atmosphere for customers.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $39,857
Sodexo offers a stable salary for cooks who want to work in a large organization. This company operates in many places, including schools, hospitals, and corporations. Cooks at Sodexo in Hershey, PA, prepare meals for various clients.
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The Hershey Company
Average Salary: $36,333
The Hershey Company is well-known for its chocolate. They also offer good pay for Cook jobs. Cooks here might work in cafeterias or special events. Locations include Hershey, PA, and surrounding areas.
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Metz Culinary Management
Average Salary: $34,414
Metz Culinary Management provides opportunities for cooks in various settings, from hotels to corporate dining. Salaries are competitive, and cooks play an important role in guest satisfaction. Locations include Hershey, PA, and nearby cities.
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Country Meadows Retirement Communities
Average Salary: $32,923
Country Meadows offers good salaries for cooks in retirement communities. They focus on providing a comfortable living environment. Cooks prepare meals for residents, ensuring they enjoy quality food. Locations include Hershey, PA, and surrounding areas.
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Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Average Salary: $28,450
Bright Horizons offers salaries for cooks in their childcare centers. They focus on providing a nurturing environment for children and their families. Cooks prepare healthy meals for children and staff. Locations include Hershey, PA, and nearby regions.
What are the best paying Cook related jobs in Hershey, PA?

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Pastry Chef
Average Salary: $67,475
A pastry chef creates delicious desserts and baked goods. They work in top restaurants and bakeries, ensuring every item looks and tastes amazing. This role involves creativity and a deep understanding of baking techniques.
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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $57,877
A sous chef helps the head chef manage the kitchen. They oversee daily operations and train other cooks. This job demands strong leadership skills and a solid grasp of kitchen management. Many well-known establishments offer this opportunity.
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Catering Manager
Average Salary: $54,667
Catering managers organize and oversee food services for events. They coordinate with clients to meet their needs and ensure timely delivery. This role suits those who love planning and managing big events.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,194
A restaurant manager runs the day-to-day operations of a dining establishment. They handle staff, oversee customer service, and ensure the business runs smoothly. It's a busy job that demands excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
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Pastry Cook
Average Salary: $41,229
Pastry cooks specialize in making pastries and desserts. They work in bakeries, cafes, and hotels, creating delightful treats for customers. This job is perfect for those who have a passion for baking.
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Food and Beverage Supervisor
Average Salary: $37,125
Food and beverage supervisors ensure high-quality food and drink service. They manage staff, maintain standards, and provide excellent customer service. This role is ideal for those who enjoy overseeing service operations.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $36,350
Kitchen managers handle the kitchen's daily operations. They supervise cooks, order supplies, and ensure everything runs smoothly. This role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
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Restaurant Supervisor
Average Salary: $36,000
Restaurant supervisors oversee servers and kitchen staff. They ensure excellent service and smooth operations. This position is suited for those who enjoy leading and supporting a team in a busy environment.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $35,839
Line cooks prepare meals quickly and efficiently. They work in fast-paced kitchens and must follow recipes precisely. This job demands speed and accuracy, making it a good fit for those who thrive in a bustling environment.
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Barista
Average Salary: $33,386
Baristas create and serve coffee and other beverages. They work in cafes and restaurants, focusing on customer satisfaction. This role is perfect for those who enjoy interacting with people and making delicious drinks.
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