Position
City
Salary

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

The average salary for a Cook is $41,486 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

In Santa Cruz, California, Cooks can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $41,486. This is based on data from various sources. While salaries may vary, many Cooks find that this figure aligns with their earnings in the area.


Cooks in Santa Cruz have the potential to earn more, especially with experience and specialized skills. For instance, those in higher-end restaurants or with culinary degrees often see their salaries increase. An ordered list of common salaries might look like this:

  1. $37,200
  2. $38,364
  3. $39,527
  4. $40,691
  5. $41,855
  6. $43,018
  7. $44,182
  8. $45,345
  9. $46,509
  10. $47,673
  11. $48,836
  12. $50,000

The salary data shows that Cooks can find good opportunities in Santa Cruz, with a range of wages based on experience and skill level.

Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Cooks can expect to earn higher wages in nearby cities around Santa Cruz, CA. Palo Alto, CA, offers the highest average salary at around $50,018. Other cities with competitive pay include Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, and San Jose, CA. Exploring these areas may lead to better financial opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Palo Alto, CA with the highest at $50,018 and Saratoga, CA with the lowest at $42,672.
  1. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $50,018
    Working as a cook in Palo Alto offers access to diverse culinary influences and opportunities. Tech companies provide vibrant dining options. You can find positions in high-end restaurants and cafes.
    Find Cook jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    Average Salary: $47,002
    In Carmel-by-the-Sea, cooks enjoy a blend of culinary traditions and scenic beauty. The city attracts many tourists and locals alike, offering numerous openings in upscale dining establishments.
    Find Cook jobs in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $45,665
    San Jose provides a dynamic food scene with a variety of restaurants. Cooks here benefit from a mix of cultures and flavors, with opportunities in both casual and fine dining venues.
    Find Cook jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $45,101
    Salinas offers a close-knit community with a strong agricultural influence. Cooks enjoy working in diverse settings, from family-owned eateries to larger dining establishments.
    Find Cook jobs in Salinas, CA


  5. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $45,016
    In Pacific Grove, cooks find themselves in a serene coastal environment. The town's vibrant dining scene provides many opportunities, especially in beachside restaurants and resorts.
    Find Cook jobs in Pacific Grove, CA


  6. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $44,588
    Scotts Valley offers a quiet, small-town feel with a friendly community. Cooks here can enjoy a slower pace while still having access to various dining options in local restaurants.
    Find Cook jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  7. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $44,461
    Monterey's rich maritime history and beautiful scenery make it a delightful place for cooks. The town boasts many seafood restaurants and culinary events, providing diverse job opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Monterey, CA


  8. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $44,259
    Watsonville offers a supportive community with a strong agricultural background. Cooks can find positions in local restaurants, enjoying the fresh, local produce available.
    Find Cook jobs in Watsonville, CA


  9. Aptos, CA
    Average Salary: $42,958
    Aptos provides a mix of suburban charm and coastal beauty. Cooks can explore various dining options, from casual cafes to more sophisticated restaurants.
    Find Cook jobs in Aptos, CA


  10. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $42,672
    Saratoga's laid-back atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive place for cooks. The town offers many dining establishments, providing diverse culinary experiences.
    Find Cook jobs in Saratoga, CA

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

Cooks in Santa Cruz, CA can look forward to good pay at several top companies. The University of California - Santa Cruz leads with an average salary of $48,350. Next, Aramark offers around $45,417, while Chaminade Resort & Spa pays about $44,136. These jobs provide stable income and benefits.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting University of California - Santa Cruz with the highest at $48,350 and Denny's with the lowest at $39,483.
  1. University of California - Santa Cruz
    Average Salary: $48,350
    The University of California - Santa Cruz offers Cook positions that provide excellent benefits and a dynamic work environment. The university operates dining facilities in various campus buildings, allowing for diverse culinary experiences. Cooks here prepare meals for students and staff, contributing to a vibrant campus life.


  2. Aramark
    Average Salary: $45,417
    Aramark, a global leader in food services, hospitality, and facilities management, provides Cook positions with competitive salaries and career growth opportunities. They operate in many locations, including schools, universities, and healthcare facilities in Santa Cruz. Cooks at Aramark are part of a team that ensures high-quality food service.


  3. Chaminade Resort & Spa
    Average Salary: $44,136
    At Chaminade Resort & Spa, Cooks enjoy a pleasant work environment that combines the beauty of the Santa Cruz coastline with a focus on quality dining. The resort is located in an upscale setting, offering Cooks the chance to create gourmet meals for guests. This position requires attention to detail and a passion for culinary excellence.


  4. New Leaf Community Markets
    Average Salary: $42,382
    New Leaf Community Markets offers Cook positions with a focus on organic and locally-sourced ingredients. This company operates several locations in Santa Cruz, providing fresh and healthy food options. Cooks here play a key role in preparing meals that align with the company’s commitment to sustainability.


  5. Denny's
    Average Salary: $39,483
    Denny's, a well-known American restaurant chain, provides Cook positions with stable hours and a friendly work atmosphere. They have multiple locations in Santa Cruz, offering a variety of menu items. Cooks at Denny’s contribute to the preparation of classic American dishes, ensuring quality and consistency.

Currently 17,282 Cook job openings, nationwide.

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Position
Overview
Cook
17,282 Job Openings