Cook Salary in Waterloo, IA

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Cook make in Waterloo, IA?

The average salary for a Cook is $32,231 per year in Waterloo, IA.

In Waterloo, IA, cooks can enjoy a decent salary. The average annual salary for a cook in this area is around $32,231. This figure can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Cooks in high-end restaurants or hotels often earn more than those in casual dining spots.

Several factors can influence a cook's earnings. These include the size of the kitchen, the type of cuisine, and the number of hours worked. Cooks who work longer hours or during peak times can expect to earn more. Additionally, those who gain experience and specialize in certain types of cooking may see higher pay over time. This makes the role of a cook in Waterloo, IA, both rewarding and potentially lucrative.

Cook jobs in Waterloo, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Waterloo, IA?

Job seekers looking for cook positions near Waterloo, IA, will find competitive salaries in nearby cities. Iowa City and North Liberty offer average annual salaries around $34,000. Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and West Des Moines provide even higher pay, with salaries reaching up to $34,000 annually. These cities offer promising opportunities for those seeking well-paying cook jobs.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Waterloo, IA, highlighting Waterloo, WI with the highest at $36,500 and Urbandale, IA with the lowest at $32,280.
  1. Waterloo, WI
    Average Salary: $36,500
    In Waterloo, WI, culinary professionals find a vibrant food scene. Many restaurants and cafes seek skilled cooks. Companies like The Village Inn offer great opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Waterloo, WI


  2. Iowa City, IA
    Average Salary: $34,113
    Iowa City, IA, boasts a lively dining culture. Cooks here work in a variety of settings, from casual eateries to upscale dining. Local favorites include The Daily Grind.
    Find Cook jobs in Iowa City, IA


  3. North Liberty, IA
    Average Salary: $34,025
    North Liberty, IA, offers a welcoming environment for cooks. The town's growing food scene provides diverse job options. Restaurants like The Local Kitchen are looking for talented cooks.
    Find Cook jobs in North Liberty, IA


  4. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $33,912
    West Des Moines, IA, has a bustling food industry. Cooks can find work in many restaurants and cafes. The city's diverse dining options offer plenty of opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  5. Sioux City, IA
    Average Salary: $33,817
    Sioux City, IA, provides a range of culinary jobs. Cooks here enjoy working in a variety of settings. Local spots like The Melting Pot are always on the lookout for skilled cooks.
    Find Cook jobs in Sioux City, IA


  6. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $33,663
    Des Moines, IA, offers a dynamic food scene for cooks. The city's many restaurants and cafes need skilled culinary professionals. Companies like The Chop House are hiring.
    Find Cook jobs in Des Moines, IA


  7. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $32,861
    Cedar Rapids, IA, has a thriving dining industry. Cooks here can find jobs in many restaurants and cafes. Local favorites include The Blue Door Bistro.
    Find Cook jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  8. Council Bluffs, IA
    Average Salary: $32,771
    Council Bluffs, IA, offers a variety of culinary jobs. Cooks can work in many different types of restaurants. Local spots like The Brick Oven are looking for talented cooks.
    Find Cook jobs in Council Bluffs, IA


  9. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $32,744
    Ames, IA, has a vibrant food scene. Cooks here can find work in many restaurants and cafes. The city's diverse dining options offer plenty of opportunities.
    Find Cook jobs in Ames, IA


  10. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $32,280
    Urbandale, IA, offers a range of culinary jobs. Cooks here can enjoy working in a variety of settings. Local restaurants like The Keg & Barrel are hiring.
    Find Cook jobs in Urbandale, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Waterloo, IA?

Brave New World offers the best pay for Cook jobs in Waterloo, IA, with an average salary of $45,267. This company provides a competitive wage, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Waterloo Community School District also offers a good salary, with an average of $38,365.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Waterloo, IA, highlighting Brave New World with the highest at $45,267 and Friendship Village Retirement Community with the lowest at $30,477.
  1. Brave New World
    Average Salary: $45,267
    Brave New World offers competitive salaries for Cook positions. They focus on providing quality meals in their dining facilities. This company operates in various locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  2. Waterloo Community School District
    Average Salary: $38,365
    The Waterloo Community School District provides a stable environment for Cook jobs. They prepare meals for students and staff. This school district operates multiple schools in Waterloo, IA.


  3. Eurest
    Average Salary: $36,667
    Eurest offers a good salary for Cook positions. They focus on catering services in various settings. This company operates in multiple locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  4. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $33,000
    Applebee's provides a decent salary for Cook jobs. They focus on serving American cuisine. This restaurant chain operates in many locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  5. Summit
    Average Salary: $32,513
    Summit offers a competitive salary for Cook positions. They focus on providing food services in various settings. This company operates in multiple locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  6. Care Initiatives
    Average Salary: $32,350
    Care Initiatives provides a good salary for Cook jobs. They focus on serving meals in healthcare facilities. This company operates in various locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  7. Summit Food Service
    Average Salary: $31,714
    Summit Food Service offers a decent salary for Cook positions. They focus on providing food services in various settings. This company operates in multiple locations, including Waterloo, IA.


  8. Carlos O'Kelly's
    Average Salary: $31,261
    Carlos O'Kelly's provides a good salary for Cook jobs. They focus on serving Irish cuisine. This restaurant operates in Waterloo, IA.


  9. Village Inn
    Average Salary: $30,511
    Village Inn offers a decent salary for Cook positions. They focus on serving American breakfast and lunch. This restaurant operates in Waterloo, IA.


  10. Friendship Village Retirement Community
    Average Salary: $30,477
    Friendship Village Retirement Community provides a good salary for Cook jobs. They focus on serving meals to residents. This retirement community operates in Waterloo, IA.

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
Overview
Cook
19,988 Job Openings