How much does a Cook make in Rapid City, SD?
In Rapid City, South Dakota, a Cook can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $34,452. This amount provides a solid foundation for those in the culinary field. Cooks prepare meals and sometimes even assist in menu planning and food presentation.
To understand how salaries are spread out, consider these common ranges:
- A Cook can start with an entry-level salary around $25,200.
- Experienced Cooks often earn between $31,309 and $35,891.
- Top earners in this role may reach up to $42,000 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Rapid City, SD?

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Hot Springs, SD
Average Salary: $39,714
Hot Springs offers a welcoming community for culinary professionals. Cooks find work in local restaurants and hotels, preparing meals for tourists and residents. The town’s hospitality industry thrives, making it a great place to build a career.
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Pierre, SD
Average Salary: $36,809
In Pierre, the capital city, Cooks work in government buildings, hotels, and local restaurants. Opportunities abound for those who enjoy a dynamic work environment. The city’s vibrant dining scene provides a range of experiences.
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Brookings, SD
Average Salary: $36,528
Brookings, home to South Dakota State University, offers many options for Cooks. They can find work in university dining facilities, local eateries, and cafes. The university creates a steady demand for skilled culinary talents.
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Mitchell, SD
Average Salary: $36,411
Mitchell provides a close-knit community where Cooks can thrive. Local restaurants and cafes offer a variety of settings for culinary professionals. The town’s supportive environment makes it a great place for career growth.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $36,144
Sioux Falls boasts a bustling food scene with many opportunities for Cooks. They work in upscale restaurants, cafes, and hotels. The city’s diverse dining options allow Cooks to explore different cuisines and styles.
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Deadwood, SD
Average Salary: $35,909
Deadwood, known for its rich history, offers unique dining experiences. Cooks can find work in historic restaurants and modern eateries. The town’s tourism industry provides a steady stream of patrons, making it an exciting place to work.
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Aberdeen, SD
Average Salary: $35,341
Aberdeen provides a mix of traditional and modern dining options for Cooks. They work in local restaurants, cafes, and hotels. The city’s growth creates many opportunities for culinary professionals to advance their careers.
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Custer, SD
Average Salary: $34,926
Custer offers a serene environment with plenty of opportunities for Cooks. They work in local restaurants, lodges, and hotels. The town’s natural beauty attracts tourists, providing a steady demand for quality meals.
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Spearfish, SD
Average Salary: $33,270
Spearfish combines a small-town feel with a vibrant food scene. Cooks can find work in local restaurants and cafes. The town’s supportive community makes it a great place to build a culinary career.
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Sturgis, SD
Average Salary: $32,372
Sturgis is famous for its motorcycle rallies, creating a lively atmosphere for Cooks. They work in local eateries, hotels, and restaurants. The town’s tourism industry offers many opportunities for culinary professionals.
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What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Rapid City, SD?

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Children's Home Society of South Dakota
Average Salary: $42,250
Children's Home Society of South Dakota provides various services for children and families. They offer Cook jobs in Rapid City, where candidates can prepare meals in a nurturing environment. This role focuses on creating a safe and healthy dining experience for children.
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The GEO Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $41,200
The GEO Group, Inc. operates in multiple states and offers Cook positions in Rapid City. They provide dining services for a large number of people daily. Cooks here prepare meals for employees and visitors in a professional setting.
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Healthcare Services Group
Average Salary: $40,375
Healthcare Services Group offers Cook positions in Rapid City. They focus on providing meal services in healthcare facilities. Cooks here prepare nutritious meals for patients, staff, and visitors. This role requires attention to detail and a commitment to health standards.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $36,778
Sodexo is a global service company with Cook positions in Rapid City. They provide food services in various locations, including schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. Cooks work to ensure meals meet high standards of quality and safety.
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Avantara
Average Salary: $36,674
Avantara offers Cook jobs in Rapid City, focusing on senior living facilities. They prepare meals that cater to the nutritional needs of elderly residents. Cooks here work in a caring environment, ensuring meals are both healthy and enjoyable.
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Westhills Village Retirement Community
Average Salary: $36,000
Westhills Village Retirement Community provides Cook positions in Rapid City. They focus on creating a home-like atmosphere for residents. Cooks here prepare delicious and nutritious meals for seniors in a warm and welcoming environment.
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Morrison Healthcare
Average Salary: $34,308
Morrison Healthcare offers Cook jobs in Rapid City. They provide food services in various facilities, including schools and hospitals. Cooks prepare meals that meet strict nutritional and safety standards, ensuring quality dining experiences.
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MUSIC SERVICE
Average Salary: $34,000
MUSIC SERVICE is a company that offers Cook positions in Rapid City. They focus on providing meals in various settings, such as schools and corporate events. Cooks here ensure meals are delicious, nutritious, and served on time.
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Sunrise Senior Living
Average Salary: $33,738
Sunrise Senior Living offers Cook jobs in Rapid City, specializing in senior care facilities. They focus on preparing meals that meet the dietary needs of elderly residents. Cooks work in a supportive environment, ensuring residents enjoy healthy and delicious meals.
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HuHot Mongolian Grill
Average Salary: $33,443
HuHot Mongolian Grill provides Cook positions in Rapid City. They focus on preparing traditional Mongolian dishes. Cooks here prepare meals with fresh ingredients, ensuring each dish meets the high standards of the restaurant.
What are the best paying Cook related jobs in Rapid City, SD?

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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $53,423
A Sous Chef works closely with the head chef. They manage kitchen staff, oversee meal preparations, and help create menus. This role requires good leadership skills and culinary expertise.
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Dietary Manager
Average Salary: $47,733
A Dietary Manager plans and oversees food services in healthcare facilities or schools. They focus on balanced, nutritious meals. This job involves collaborating with nutritionists and chefs to meet dietary needs.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $46,887
A Restaurant Manager handles all operations in a dining establishment. They manage staff, handle customer service, and oversee financial aspects. This position demands strong organizational skills and customer interaction.
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Restaurant Supervisor
Average Salary: $45,623
A Restaurant Supervisor ensures that food service runs smoothly. They oversee kitchen and front-of-house staff, manage schedules, and maintain high service standards. This job involves a mix of people management and customer service.
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Bartender Manager
Average Salary: $45,000
A Bartender Manager oversees the bar staff and ensures smooth service. They handle inventory, manage bar operations, and keep track of sales. This role combines customer service with inventory management.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $42,500
A Kitchen Manager coordinates kitchen staff and operations. They ensure food safety, manage supplies, and oversee meal preparation. This job needs strong leadership and culinary skills.
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Floor Supervisor
Average Salary: $40,345
A Floor Supervisor manages the dining area staff. They ensure customer satisfaction and smooth service. This role involves overseeing service staff and ensuring a welcoming environment.
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Catering Manager
Average Salary: $39,620
A Catering Manager organizes food services for events. They plan menus, manage event logistics, and ensure timely delivery. This job requires strong planning and organizational skills.
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Caterer
Average Salary: $34,400
A Caterer prepares and serves food for events. They work on-site to ensure food is ready and presented well. This position demands flexibility and attention to detail.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $33,896
A Line Cook prepares meals in a fast-paced kitchen. They work in shifts to ensure food is cooked to order. This role needs efficiency and teamwork in a busy environment.
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