Cook Cook Salary in Washington, DC

Cook Salary in Washington, DC

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Washington, DC?

The average salary for a Cook is $42,934 per year in Washington, DC.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $42,934 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $3,578 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $826 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $21 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Cooks in Washington, DC earn an average yearly salary of $42,934. This average covers many cooks in different settings, from fine dining to casual cafes. Cooks typically prepare and cook food for customers and staff in various types of restaurants and other food service locations.


Some cooks earn less, while others make more. Here is a look at the salary distribution:

  • 10% of cooks earn less than $33,450
  • 25% earn between $33,450 and $38,179
  • 50% earn between $38,179 and $47,637
  • 75% earn between $47,637 and $54,731
  • 90% earn less than $57,095

This information helps job seekers understand what to expect in terms of salary. It also shows that there is a range of earnings, depending on experience and the type of restaurant.

Cook jobs in Washington, DC
View all Cook jobs in Washington, DC

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Washington, DC?

Cooks in National Harbor, MD, can expect to earn the highest average salary near Washington, DC. This area provides a competitive salary of approximately $43,917. Nearby cities like Arlington, VA, and Hyattsville, MD, also offer attractive salary packages for culinary professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Washington, DC, highlighting National Harbor, MD with the highest at $43,917 and Chevy Chase, MD with the lowest at $37,236.

  1. National Harbor, MD
    Average Salary: $43,917
    National Harbor offers a unique setting for culinary professionals. The area's vibrant dining scene features upscale restaurants. Working here means preparing gourmet meals with fresh ingredients. It’s an excellent place for cooks to showcase their skills.
    Find Cook jobs in National Harbor, MD


  2. Arlington, VA
    Average Salary: $41,198
    Arlington provides a bustling environment for culinary careers. Many fine dining establishments and chain restaurants create a demand for skilled cooks. This city allows chefs to experiment with diverse cuisines. It's a great place for cooks to advance their skills.
    Find Cook jobs in Arlington, VA


  3. Hyattsville, MD
    Average Salary: $39,593
    Hyattsville’s diverse community brings a rich culinary experience. Many local eateries seek talented cooks to prepare authentic dishes. The area’s growing food scene offers many opportunities. It’s an exciting place for cooks looking to grow their career.
    Find Cook jobs in Hyattsville, MD


  4. Gaithersburg, MD
    Average Salary: $39,261
    Gaithersburg offers a mix of casual and upscale dining options. The city’s growing population means a steady demand for fresh, tasty meals. Cooks here can work in family-owned restaurants or modern cafes. It’s a supportive place for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Gaithersburg, MD


  5. Bethesda, MD
    Average Salary: $39,129
    Bethesda’s affluent neighborhood features many high-end restaurants. These places need skilled cooks to prepare gourmet dishes. Working here means serving a sophisticated clientele. It’s a great opportunity for cooks who love fine dining.
    Find Cook jobs in Bethesda, MD


  6. Rockville, MD
    Average Salary: $38,568
    Rockville offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining. Cooks here prepare a wide range of meals to satisfy diverse tastes. The city’s lively atmosphere means lots of opportunities. It’s a dynamic place for culinary enthusiasts.
    Find Cook jobs in Rockville, MD


  7. Falls Church, VA
    Average Salary: $38,278
    Falls Church’s charming setting has a growing food scene. Many local restaurants look for creative cooks to join their teams. This city’s mix of cultures adds a unique twist to menus. It’s an engaging place for cooks who love variety.
    Find Cook jobs in Falls Church, VA


  8. Annapolis, MD
    Average Salary: $37,862
    Annapolis offers a historic dining scene with modern twists. Cooks here blend tradition with innovation in their dishes. The city’s unique atmosphere provides a lot of inspiration. It’s a fulfilling place for culinary professionals.
    Find Cook jobs in Annapolis, MD


  9. Alexandria, VA
    Average Salary: $37,318
    Alexandria’s diverse culinary landscape needs skilled cooks. From casual eateries to fine dining, the city has it all. Cooks here can experiment with different cuisines and techniques. It’s a vibrant place for culinary careers.
    Find Cook jobs in Alexandria, VA


  10. Chevy Chase, MD
    Average Salary: $37,236
    Chevy Chase offers upscale dining with a focus on quality. Many high-end restaurants need talented cooks. Working here means preparing exquisite meals for discerning diners. It’s an excellent place for cooks who love fine dining.
    Find Cook jobs in Chevy Chase, MD

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Washington, DC?

Top-paying companies for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, offer great opportunities for job seekers. Children's National Hospital and CAPITOL HILL CLUB provide competitive salaries for those interested in this role. Montage International, Bon Appétit, and Marriott International also rank high in terms of pay, making them excellent choices for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Washington, DC, highlighting Children's National Hospital with the highest at $57,702 and Hilton with the lowest at $47,909.

  1. Children's National Hospital
    Average Salary: $57,702
    At Children's National Hospital, Cooks work in a supportive environment. They prepare meals for patients, staff, and visitors. This hospital operates in Washington, DC, and offers a competitive salary.


  2. CAPITOL HILL CLUB
    Average Salary: $56,500
    The Capitol Hill Club provides Cooks with an opportunity to work in a prestigious setting. Cooks here prepare meals for members and guests. This club is located in the heart of Washington, DC, providing a vibrant work environment.


  3. Montage International
    Average Salary: $51,428
    Montage International offers Cooks a chance to work in luxury settings. They prepare meals for high-profile events and guests. This company operates multiple locations in Washington, DC.


  4. Bon Appétit
    Average Salary: $50,953
    Bon Appétit is known for its diverse menu and inclusive work environment. Cooks here prepare meals for various venues, including schools and hospitals. The company operates in multiple locations across Washington, DC.


  5. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $50,576
    Marriott International offers Cooks a chance to work in a world-renowned hospitality company. They prepare meals for guests in various settings. This company operates many hotels in Washington, DC.


  6. U.S. Air Force
    Average Salary: $48,863
    The U.S. Air Force provides Cooks with a stable and rewarding career. They prepare meals for service members and their families. This organization operates multiple bases in the Washington, DC area.


  7. Maplewood Senior Living
    Average Salary: $48,000
    Maplewood Senior Living offers Cooks the opportunity to work in a caring environment. They prepare meals for senior residents. This senior living community operates in Washington, DC.


  8. The Watergate Hotel
    Average Salary: $47,980
    The Watergate Hotel provides Cooks with a chance to work in a historic and luxurious setting. They prepare meals for guests and event attendees. This hotel is located in Washington, DC.


  9. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $47,944
    Hyatt offers Cooks a chance to work in a well-known hospitality company. They prepare meals for guests in various settings. This company operates multiple hotels in Washington, DC.


  10. Hilton
    Average Salary: $47,909
    Hilton provides Cooks with a rewarding career in hospitality. They prepare meals for guests and event attendees. This company operates many hotels in Washington, DC.

Currently 13,588 Cook job openings, nationwide.

View Cook Jobs in Washington, DC

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
Overview
Cook
13,588 Job Openings

Win at hiring.

Visit the help center for any questions.
Contact Support
ReadySetHire icon
©2025 • ReadySetHire