Cook Salary in Santa Ana, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Cook make in Santa Ana, CA?

The average salary for a Cook is $38,900 per year in Santa Ana, CA.

In Santa Ana, CA, Cooks earn a competitive salary. The average salary for a Cook in this area is around $38,900 per year. This figure can vary depending on experience, the type of establishment, and specific duties. Cooks in Santa Ana can expect to make between $32,000 and $49,000 annually.

Several factors influence the salary of a Cook in Santa Ana. Experienced Cooks who work in high-end restaurants or hotels often earn more. Those with specialized skills, such as those who can prepare international cuisines, may also see higher pay. Additionally, Cooks who work in busy periods, such as during holidays or special events, might receive extra pay or bonuses.

Cook jobs in Santa Ana, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Santa Ana, CA?

Cooks near Santa Ana, CA, can find some of the best pay in Newport Beach, CA, where the average annual salary is $44,357. Santa Monica, CA, offers a close second with an average salary of $43,505. Laguna Beach, CA, rounds out the top three with an average salary of $42,964. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking higher pay in the culinary field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Santa Ana, CA, highlighting Newport Beach, CA with the highest at $44,357 and Cypress, CA with the lowest at $39,778.
  1. Newport Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $44,357
    In Newport Beach, culinary professionals thrive in a vibrant dining scene. With upscale restaurants and trendy cafes, cooks enjoy diverse menus and high standards. Notable establishments include The Boathouse and The Press.
    Find Cook jobs in Newport Beach, CA


  2. Santa Monica, CA
    Average Salary: $43,505
    Santa Monica offers a dynamic environment for cooks. The city's diverse food culture provides many opportunities. Popular spots like The Ivy and Nobu Santa Monica attract talented chefs.
    Find Cook jobs in Santa Monica, CA


  3. Laguna Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $42,964
    Laguna Beach provides a serene setting for culinary work. The laid-back atmosphere complements the fresh, local ingredients. Restaurants like Montage and The Cottage offer unique dining experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Laguna Beach, CA


  4. Irvine, CA
    Average Salary: $41,279
    Irvine's growing culinary scene offers many opportunities. The city's diverse population leads to a rich variety of cuisines. Cooks can find work in places like The Boathouse at Pelican Hill.
    Find Cook jobs in Irvine, CA


  5. Mission Viejo, CA
    Average Salary: $40,547
    Mission Viejo presents a chance for cooks to explore a variety of dining options. The city's expanding food industry offers diverse roles. Restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory provide solid experience.
    Find Cook jobs in Mission Viejo, CA


  6. Costa Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $40,297
    Costa Mesa's vibrant food culture makes it a great place for cooks. The city's many restaurants and cafes offer diverse culinary experiences. Notable spots include The Black Stallion and The Cheesecake Factory.
    Find Cook jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Anaheim, CA
    Average Salary: $40,270
    Anaheim's dynamic dining scene provides many opportunities for cooks. The city's diverse population leads to a wide range of cuisines. Popular restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory offer exciting roles.
    Find Cook jobs in Anaheim, CA


  8. Fountain Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $40,240
    Fountain Valley offers a welcoming environment for culinary professionals. The city's many restaurants provide diverse experiences. Cooks can find work in places like The Cheesecake Factory and local cafes.
    Find Cook jobs in Fountain Valley, CA


  9. Fullerton, CA
    Average Salary: $40,041
    Fullerton's growing food industry offers many opportunities for cooks. The city's diverse dining scene provides a variety of culinary experiences. Restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and local eateries offer solid roles.
    Find Cook jobs in Fullerton, CA


  10. Cypress, CA
    Average Salary: $39,778
    Cypress provides a supportive environment for culinary work. The city's many restaurants offer diverse dining experiences. Cooks can find work in places like The Cheesecake Factory and local cafes.
    Find Cook jobs in Cypress, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Santa Ana, CA?

Cooks in Santa Ana, CA, can find good pay at Management Support, with an average salary of $54,333. Kindred Hospitals also offers a competitive salary of $46,020. Frontier Management, LLC and HMSHost both provide salaries around $42,000. These companies value their culinary staff and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Santa Ana, CA, highlighting Management Support with the highest at $54,333 and South Coast Post Acute with the lowest at $39,340.
  1. Management Support
    Average Salary: $54,333
    Management Support offers competitive salaries for Cook positions. They provide food services in various locations, including Santa Ana, CA. Cooks here prepare meals for patients and staff in a healthcare setting.


  2. Kindred Hospitals
    Average Salary: $46,020
    Kindred Hospitals provides a good salary for Cook jobs. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, and focus on patient care. Cooks here prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff, ensuring high standards of food quality.


  3. Frontier Management, LLC
    Average Salary: $42,000
    Frontier Management, LLC offers a solid salary for Cook positions. They manage food services in Santa Ana, CA. Cooks here prepare meals for events and cater to diverse dietary needs.


  4. HMSHost
    Average Salary: $42,000
    HMSHost provides a competitive salary for Cook jobs. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, offering food services in various locations. Cooks here prepare meals for travelers and guests, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.


  5. ILLUMINATION FOUNDATION
    Average Salary: $41,667
    ILLUMINATION FOUNDATION offers a good salary for Cook positions. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, providing food services for events and gatherings. Cooks here prepare meals that cater to different tastes and preferences.


  6. Busch Group
    Average Salary: $41,500
    Busch Group provides a solid salary for Cook jobs. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, offering food services in various locations. Cooks here prepare meals for customers, ensuring high quality and taste.


  7. Pollo Campero
    Average Salary: $41,000
    Pollo Campero offers a good salary for Cook positions. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, and are known for their delicious chicken dishes. Cooks here prepare meals that delight customers with their flavor and quality.


  8. The KPC Group of Companies
    Average Salary: $40,568
    The KPC Group of Companies provides a competitive salary for Cook jobs. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, offering food services in various locations. Cooks here prepare meals for events and cater to diverse dietary needs.


  9. Advanced Rehab Center of Tustin
    Average Salary: $40,294
    Advanced Rehab Center of Tustin offers a good salary for Cook positions. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, providing food services for patients and staff. Cooks here prepare nutritious meals that meet dietary requirements.


  10. South Coast Post Acute
    Average Salary: $39,340
    South Coast Post Acute provides a solid salary for Cook jobs. They operate in Santa Ana, CA, offering food services for patients and staff. Cooks here prepare meals that are both nutritious and delicious.

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