Cook Salary in Memphis, TN

Updated on May 09, 2025
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City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Memphis, TN?

The average salary for a Cook is $30,607 per year in Memphis, TN.

In Memphis, TN, cooks can expect to earn a range of salaries. The average salary for a cook in this area is around 30,607 dollars per year. This figure can vary based on experience and the type of establishment. Cooks in high-end restaurants often earn more than those in casual dining spots. The lowest-paid cooks earn around 23,000 dollars annually, while the highest-paid can make up to 40,000 dollars.

Several factors influence a cook's salary in Memphis. These include the type of cuisine, the size of the restaurant, and the cook's level of experience. Cooks who specialize in certain types of cuisine, like Southern or BBQ, may find higher-paying opportunities. Larger restaurants often offer better salaries and benefits compared to smaller ones. Experienced cooks with a strong portfolio can command higher wages.

Cook jobs in Memphis, TN

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Memphis, TN?

Cooks near Memphis, TN, can find higher pay in nearby cities. Nashville, TN, offers the highest average salary at $35,885. St. Louis, MO, follows closely with an average salary of $34,001. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking better compensation in their culinary careers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Memphis, TN, highlighting Nashville, TN with the highest at $35,885 and New Orleans, LA with the lowest at $29,278.
  1. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $35,885
    Nashville offers a vibrant culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Southern and modern cuisine. Many restaurants and hotels seek skilled cooks to prepare delicious meals. Notable employers include Acme Feed & Seed and The Bluebird Cafe.
    Find Cook jobs in Nashville, TN


  2. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $34,001
    St. Louis has a rich food culture, with a focus on BBQ and comfort food. Cooks here enjoy a variety of challenges and opportunities to innovate. Companies like Pappy's Smokehouse and The Grove are known for their culinary excellence.
    Find Cook jobs in St. Louis, MO


  3. Paducah, KY
    Average Salary: $31,247
    In Paducah, cooks can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while preparing a range of dishes. The city's dining scene includes local favorites where cooks can showcase their skills. Restaurants like The Dog House and The 1857 Restaurant offer great opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Paducah, KY


  4. Knoxville, TN
    Average Salary: $30,590
    Knoxville's diverse culinary landscape offers cooks many chances to explore different cuisines. The city's vibrant food scene includes establishments like The Southern Steak & Oyster and Hattie B's. Cooks here can find fulfilling roles in various settings.
    Find Cook jobs in Knoxville, TN


  5. Chattanooga, TN
    Average Salary: $30,479
    Chattanooga's growing food scene offers cooks a chance to work in a variety of settings. The city's restaurants and cafes value creativity and skill. Notable places include The Terminal and The River House Restaurant.
    Find Cook jobs in Chattanooga, TN


  6. Birmingham, AL
    Average Salary: $30,384
    Birmingham's culinary scene is rich with Southern flavors and innovative dishes. Cooks here can find work in a diverse range of restaurants. Notable employers include The Epicure and The Cane Restaurant & Bar.
    Find Cook jobs in Birmingham, AL


  7. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $30,245
    Little Rock offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, providing cooks with diverse opportunities. The city's dining scene includes local favorites where cooks can thrive. Restaurants like The Argenta and The Mercantile offer exciting roles.
    Find Cook jobs in Little Rock, AR


  8. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $30,203
    Huntsville's food scene is growing, with a variety of restaurants seeking skilled cooks. The city offers a mix of Southern and international cuisines. Notable places include The Red Clay and The Mad Hatter.
    Find Cook jobs in Huntsville, AL


  9. Tulsa, OK
    Average Salary: $29,486
    Tulsa's culinary landscape is vibrant, with a focus on local ingredients and flavors. Cooks here can find work in a variety of settings. Restaurants like The Boiler Room and The Butcher & The Boar offer exciting opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Tulsa, OK


  10. New Orleans, LA
    Average Salary: $29,278
    New Orleans is famous for its unique cuisine, offering cooks a chance to explore Creole and Cajun dishes. The city's dining scene is lively and diverse. Notable places include Commander's Palace and Café du Monde.
    Find Cook jobs in New Orleans, LA

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Memphis, TN?

Job seekers looking for cook jobs in Memphis, TN, can find good opportunities with top-paying companies. The Army Corps of Engineers offers the highest average salary at $57,283. Other notable employers include the US Department of Veterans Affairs and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, both providing competitive wages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Memphis, TN, highlighting Army Corps of Engineers with the highest at $57,283 and Liberty Healthcare Companies with the lowest at $35,236.
  1. Army Corps of Engineers
    Average Salary: $57,283
    The Army Corps of Engineers offers Cook jobs with a competitive salary. They operate nationwide, providing opportunities for those who want to travel and work in different locations. Their Cooks prepare meals for military personnel and staff.


  2. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $46,023
    The US Department of Veterans Affairs provides Cook jobs with a good salary. They have facilities across the country, offering various locations for Cooks to work in. Their Cooks prepare meals for veterans and staff.


  3. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
    Average Salary: $38,867
    St. Jude Children's Research Hospital offers Cook jobs with a decent salary. Located in Memphis, TN, this hospital provides meals for patients, families, and staff. Their Cooks play a vital role in supporting the hospital's mission.


  4. Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe
    Average Salary: $38,667
    Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe offers Cook jobs with a competitive salary. They have locations in Memphis, TN, and other cities. Their Cooks prepare delicious Mediterranean dishes for customers.


  5. Dismas Charities
    Average Salary: $38,543
    Dismas Charities offers Cook jobs with a good salary. They operate in Memphis, TN, and provide meals for those in need. Their Cooks help support the community by preparing nutritious meals.


  6. Canopy by Hilton
    Average Salary: $37,083
    Canopy by Hilton offers Cook jobs with a decent salary. They have locations in Memphis, TN, and other cities. Their Cooks prepare meals for hotel guests and staff.


  7. American Commercial Barge Line LLC
    Average Salary: $36,817
    American Commercial Barge Line LLC offers Cook jobs with a good salary. They operate in Memphis, TN, and other locations. Their Cooks prepare meals for employees on barges and at company facilities.


  8. On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
    Average Salary: $36,000
    On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina offers Cook jobs with a decent salary. They have locations in Memphis, TN, and other cities. Their Cooks prepare authentic Mexican dishes for customers.


  9. The Arbor Company
    Average Salary: $35,619
    The Arbor Company offers Cook jobs with a good salary. They operate in Memphis, TN, and other locations. Their Cooks prepare meals for residents in their care facilities.


  10. Liberty Healthcare Companies
    Average Salary: $35,236
    Liberty Healthcare Companies offers Cook jobs with a decent salary. They have facilities in Memphis, TN, and other cities. Their Cooks prepare meals for patients and staff in healthcare settings.

Currently 19,988 Cook job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Cook in the US?

Learn what a Cook does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Cook today.
Position
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Cook
19,988 Job Openings