Cook Cook Salary in Richmond, VA

Cook Salary in Richmond, VA

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Richmond, VA?

The average salary for a Cook is $35,131 per year in Richmond, VA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Richmond, VA, showing an average salary of $35,131 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Richmond, VA, showing an average salary of $2,928 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Richmond, VA, showing an average salary of $676 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Richmond, VA, showing an average salary of $17 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Richmond, VA, Cooks earn a yearly salary that reflects their skills and experience in the culinary field. The average yearly salary for a Cook in this area is about $35,131. Cooks might earn less if they are just starting their career or have less experience. As they gain more experience, they can expect to earn more.


Cooks in Richmond can expect a range of salaries. The lowest 10% of earners make around $26,000 a year. The highest 10% can earn up to $44,000 or more annually. Most Cooks fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries around the average. Factors such as the type of kitchen they work in and their responsibilities also affect their pay.

Cook jobs in Richmond, VA
View all Cook jobs in Richmond, VA

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Richmond, VA?

Cooks near Richmond, VA, can find good job opportunities in Chesterfield, VA, with an average salary of $43,381. This city offers competitive pay for culinary professionals. Nearby, Alexandria, VA, provides another attractive option with an average salary of $37,318, making it worth considering. These locations provide excellent chances for cooks to earn a strong income.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Richmond, VA, highlighting Chesterfield, VA with the highest at $43,381 and Petersburg, VA with the lowest at $32,861.

  1. Chesterfield, VA
    Average Salary: $43,381
    In Chesterfield, VA, culinary professionals thrive in vibrant settings, from upscale dining to cozy family restaurants. Local favorites like River City Restaurant offer unique menu options, providing chefs with diverse opportunities to showcase their skills.
    Find Cook jobs in Chesterfield, VA


  2. Alexandria, VA
    Average Salary: $37,318
    Alexandria's rich history adds a unique touch to its dining scene. Cooks here work in both historic establishments and modern eateries. Chefs can enjoy the dynamic atmosphere while creating dishes that appeal to a diverse crowd at places like The Birch and The Hive.
    Find Cook jobs in Alexandria, VA


  3. Charlottesville, VA
    Average Salary: $34,735
    Charlottesville offers a blend of traditional and contemporary dining experiences. Cooks can find work in historic venues like The Boar's Head and newer establishments. The city's food culture ensures a variety of challenges and learning opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Charlottesville, VA


  4. Harrisonburg, VA
    Average Salary: $34,361
    In Harrisonburg, VA, cooks enjoy a vibrant food scene with a mix of local flavors and diverse culinary techniques. Working at places like The Blue Onion offers chefs the chance to innovate in a friendly environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Harrisonburg, VA


  5. Virginia Beach, VA
    Average Salary: $34,344
    Virginia Beach is a hub for culinary creativity with its beachfront dining options. Cooks here can enjoy a lively atmosphere while preparing fresh seafood and beachside cuisine. Restaurants like The Fisherman's Catch provide a dynamic environment for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Virginia Beach, VA


  6. Staunton, VA
    Average Salary: $33,924
    Staunton offers a charming dining scene with a mix of local and regional flavors. Cooks can explore traditional recipes while working in cozy, welcoming settings. The downtown area is home to many unique restaurants.
    Find Cook jobs in Staunton, VA


  7. Blacksburg, VA
    Average Salary: $33,812
    Blacksburg's dining scene is influenced by its vibrant college community. Cooks here enjoy a mix of casual and upscale dining experiences. The university setting provides a unique clientele and diverse culinary challenges.
    Find Cook jobs in Blacksburg, VA


  8. Danville, VA
    Average Salary: $33,095
    Danville offers a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences. Cooks can work in both family-owned restaurants and contemporary eateries. The city's diverse food culture ensures a variety of opportunities for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Danville, VA


  9. Manassas, VA
    Average Salary: $33,053
    In Manassas, VA, cooks can find work in a variety of settings, from casual diners to upscale restaurants. The city's growing food scene offers opportunities to create unique dishes while serving a diverse community.
    Find Cook jobs in Manassas, VA


  10. Petersburg, VA
    Average Salary: $32,861
    Petersburg offers a mix of historic and contemporary dining experiences. Cooks here can work in charming, historic venues and modern eateries. The city's rich culinary history provides a unique backdrop for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Petersburg, VA

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Richmond, VA?

Cooks in Richmond, VA, have several solid options when looking for top-paying employers. First Watch offers an average salary of $44,000, making it a great choice. Other companies like US Defense Logistics Agency and Eurest also provide attractive salaries around $42,000 and $39,875, respectively. These companies value their culinary staff and offer competitive wages. Omni Hotels and RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES also pay well, with salaries around $39,000. Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Masonic Home of Virginia, and Restaurant Associates follow closely with salaries above $37,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Richmond, VA, highlighting First Watch with the highest at $44,000 and Morrison Healthcare with the lowest at $36,164.

  1. First Watch
    Average Salary: $44,000
    First Watch is a growing restaurant chain that values culinary creativity and quality service. Cooks at First Watch prepare fresh meals and maintain kitchen standards. Locations in Richmond, VA, offer a vibrant dining experience.


  2. US Defense Logistics Agency
    Average Salary: $42,030
    The US Defense Logistics Agency provides support to the military with quality meals. Cooks here prepare meals for large groups. The agency operates facilities across the nation, including in Richmond, VA.


  3. Eurest
    Average Salary: $39,875
    Eurest is a global food service company. Cooks at Eurest work in diverse environments like hospitals and corporate offices. They ensure meals meet high standards. The company has several locations in Richmond, VA.


  4. Omni Hotels
    Average Salary: $39,000
    Omni Hotels offers luxury and comfort to its guests. Cooks at Omni create delicious meals in upscale settings. They work in multiple locations, including Richmond, VA, where the hotel provides a vibrant culinary experience.


  5. RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES
    Average Salary: $38,250
    RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES provide resort-style living. Cooks here prepare gourmet meals for residents. The company operates communities in several areas, including Richmond, VA.


  6. Bright Horizons Family Solutions
    Average Salary: $38,240
    Bright Horizons Family Solutions offers childcare and early education. Cooks prepare nutritious meals for children. They work in facilities throughout Richmond, VA, and beyond.


  7. Masonic Home of Virginia
    Average Salary: $37,766
    The Masonic Home of Virginia cares for seniors. Cooks here prepare meals that meet dietary needs. They work in a supportive environment, located in Richmond, VA.


  8. Restaurant Associates
    Average Salary: $37,571
    Restaurant Associates manages dining services for various clients. Cooks prepare meals in diverse settings. They work in locations across Richmond, VA, ensuring quality and consistency.


  9. Schulte Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $36,667
    Schulte Hospitality Group offers dining solutions for hotels and other venues. Cooks work in high-traffic areas, preparing meals to meet guest expectations. They operate in Richmond, VA, among other places.


  10. Morrison Healthcare
    Average Salary: $36,164
    Morrison Healthcare provides food services in healthcare and educational facilities. Cooks prepare meals for patients and students. They work in Richmond, VA, and other locations, ensuring nutritional needs are met.

Currently 13,588 Cook job openings, nationwide.

View Cook Jobs in Richmond, VA

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.
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