Cook Cook Salary in Pittsburgh, PA

Cook Salary in Pittsburgh, PA

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Pittsburgh, PA?

The average salary for a Cook is $35,792 per year in Pittsburgh, PA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, showing an average salary of $35,792 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, showing an average salary of $2,983 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, showing an average salary of $688 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, showing an average salary of $17 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Pittsburgh, PA, cooks have a variety of salaries based on experience and the type of establishment. Most cooks earn between $27,000 and $45,000 a year. The average yearly salary is about $35,792. Cooks in the top 10% earn more, often due to their skills and roles in the kitchen.

The different types of jobs for cooks include those in restaurants, hotels, and schools. Cooks working in big city restaurants often make more than those in smaller places. Cooks in hotels and schools usually earn less than those in busy restaurants. Working in a busy place like Pittsburgh gives cooks more chances to grow and earn more over time.

Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA
View all Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Pittsburgh, PA?

Cooks near Pittsburgh, PA can find excellent job opportunities in nearby cities. Lakewood, OH offers the highest average salary of $36,743. Buffalo, NY follows closely with an average salary of $36,013. Both cities provide strong prospects for those in the culinary field. In addition to these top earners, Lancaster, PA, and Detroit, MI also present attractive options for cooks seeking competitive wages. Lancaster offers an average salary of $35,324, while Detroit provides $35,259. These cities, along with others in the list, offer a range of opportunities for culinary professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Pittsburgh, PA, highlighting Lakewood, OH with the highest at $36,743 and Toledo, OH with the lowest at $33,086.

  1. Lakewood, OH
    Average Salary: $36,743
    Working as a cook in Lakewood offers a chance to serve diverse communities. The area boasts a mix of restaurants and hotels, with companies like Denny’s and local eateries looking for skilled cooks. The vibrant food scene provides plenty of opportunities to grow and innovate in your craft.
    Find Cook jobs in Lakewood, OH


  2. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $36,013
    In Buffalo, cooks enjoy a rich culinary tradition. The city is home to many restaurants and food establishments, including chains like Tops Markets and local favorites. Buffalo’s growing food scene means there are many ways for cooks to find creative and rewarding work.
    Find Cook jobs in Buffalo, NY


  3. Lancaster, PA
    Average Salary: $35,324
    Lancaster offers a dynamic food environment for cooks. The city has a mix of family-owned diners and trendy restaurants. Places like Miller’s Ale House and local farm-to-table spots provide excellent opportunities for chefs to showcase their skills in a historic and welcoming setting.
    Find Cook jobs in Lancaster, PA


  4. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $35,259
    Detroit’s culinary landscape is vibrant and diverse. The city’s rich history of auto manufacturing has shaped a unique food culture. Cooks can find jobs at iconic spots like Monroe Street Fish Market and numerous independent restaurants. The bustling food scene allows for creativity and innovation in the kitchen.
    Find Cook jobs in Detroit, MI


  5. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $34,977
    Cincinnati’s food scene is known for its southern charm and unique flavors. Cooks can work at places like the Cincinnati Zoo’s restaurants or popular local eateries. The city's blend of traditional and modern cuisine offers many opportunities for culinary professionals to thrive.
    Find Cook jobs in Cincinnati, OH


  6. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $34,854
    Columbus is a bustling city with a thriving food industry. Cooks can find employment at well-known establishments like The Ohio State University’s dining services or local favorite diners. The city’s growing food scene provides a dynamic environment for culinary professionals to excel.
    Find Cook jobs in Columbus, OH


  7. Cleveland, OH
    Average Salary: $34,570
    Cleveland offers a lively food scene with plenty of opportunities for cooks. The city has a mix of classic diners and modern restaurants, including popular spots like The Broken Shaker. Cleveland’s diverse culinary landscape provides many chances for cooks to explore different cuisines and styles.
    Find Cook jobs in Cleveland, OH


  8. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $33,912
    In Indianapolis, cooks can enjoy a rich culinary environment. The city has a growing number of restaurants and food festivals, such as the famous Taste of Indianapolis. Cooks can find jobs at places like The City Market and various independent eateries, offering plenty of opportunities to showcase their skills.
    Find Cook jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  9. Dayton, OH
    Average Salary: $33,231
    Dayton’s food scene is vibrant and supportive of culinary professionals. Cooks can find work at local favorites like The Dayton Brewery and various restaurants. The city’s growing interest in diverse cuisines provides many opportunities for chefs to innovate and grow in their careers.
    Find Cook jobs in Dayton, OH


  10. Toledo, OH
    Average Salary: $33,086
    Toledo offers a welcoming environment for cooks. The city’s diverse dining scene includes spots like The Glasshouse and numerous local eateries. Toledo’s supportive food community provides excellent opportunities for culinary professionals to find rewarding careers.
    Find Cook jobs in Toledo, OH

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Pittsburgh, PA?

Cooks in Pittsburgh, PA, have many great job options. UPMC stands out with an average salary of $45,547, offering a strong financial incentive. FLIK Hospitality Group and First Watch also provide competitive salaries, making them attractive choices for culinary professionals.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, highlighting UPMC with the highest at $45,547 and The Residence at Whitehall with the lowest at $38,000.

  1. UPMC
    Average Salary: $45,547
    UPMC, a leading healthcare provider, offers cook jobs in various locations. These positions involve preparing meals for patients and staff. UPMC operates multiple hospitals and outpatient centers in Pittsburgh and beyond.


  2. FLIK Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $43,000
    FLIK Hospitality Group provides cook jobs in Pittsburgh with a focus on hospitality. Employees prepare meals in a fast-paced environment. The company manages several restaurants in the Pittsburgh area.


  3. First Watch
    Average Salary: $41,721
    First Watch offers cook positions with a focus on creating high-quality meals. Cooks prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The company operates multiple locations in Pittsburgh.


  4. ISS Facility Services
    Average Salary: $41,000
    ISS Facility Services provides cook jobs in various settings including corporate offices and event locations. The role involves meal preparation and maintenance of food quality. ISS operates throughout Pittsburgh.


  5. Panda Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $40,900
    Panda Restaurant Group offers cook jobs with a focus on Asian cuisine. Cooks prepare authentic dishes for customers. The company operates multiple Panda Express locations in Pittsburgh.


  6. AVI Foodsystems, Inc
    Average Salary: $40,000
    AVI Foodsystems, Inc provides cook positions with a focus on institutional food service. Cooks prepare meals for schools, hospitals, and other institutions. The company serves various locations in Pittsburgh.


  7. Cura
    Average Salary: $38,296
    Cura offers cook jobs in senior living and assisted living communities. Cooks prepare meals for residents. Cura operates several locations in the Pittsburgh area.


  8. Little Sisters of The Poor
    Average Salary: $38,250
    Little Sisters of The Poor provides cook jobs focused on serving meals to the elderly in need. Cooks prepare nutritious meals for the residents. The organization operates in Pittsburgh.


  9. RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES
    Average Salary: $38,200
    RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES offers cook jobs in upscale senior living communities. Cooks prepare gourmet meals for residents. The company operates several luxury retirement communities in Pittsburgh.


  10. The Residence at Whitehall
    Average Salary: $38,000
    The Residence at Whitehall provides cook positions in a senior living community. Cooks prepare meals for residents. The facility is located in Whitehall, Pittsburgh.

Currently 13,588 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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