Line Cook Salary in Iowa City, IA
How much does a Line Cook make in Iowa City, IA?
In Iowa City, IA, a Line Cook can expect to earn a salary that reflects the local cost of living and the demand for culinary skills. The average salary for a Line Cook in this area is around $31,844 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, the specific restaurant, and the size of the kitchen. Those with more experience and specialized skills often earn higher wages.
Factors that can influence a Line Cook's salary include the type of cuisine they prepare, their ability to work under pressure, and the time of year. For example, Line Cooks in busy restaurants during peak seasons may see higher earnings. Additionally, those who take on extra responsibilities, such as managing a small team or overseeing a specific station, may also earn more. Understanding these factors can help job seekers position themselves for a better salary in the future.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook near Iowa City, IA?

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West Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $34,536
In West Des Moines, culinary professionals thrive in a vibrant dining scene. With many upscale restaurants, cooks can gain valuable experience. Companies like The Westin and The Principal Hotel offer excellent opportunities.
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Decorah, IA
Average Salary: $33,667
Decorah provides a charming atmosphere for cooks. The town's focus on quality dining makes it a great place to work. Local favorites such as Decorah Coffee Shop and The Exchange Restaurant are popular employers.
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Bettendorf, IA
Average Salary: $33,250
Bettendorf offers a dynamic culinary environment. Cooks here enjoy a mix of casual and fine dining options. Restaurants like The Old Spaghetti Factory and The Melting Pot provide diverse experiences.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $33,004
Des Moines is a bustling hub for food lovers. Cooks can find work in a variety of settings, from trendy cafes to established chains. Companies such as Hy-Vee and Pella Windows offer numerous positions.
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Ankeny, IA
Average Salary: $32,750
Ankeny's growing food scene presents many opportunities for cooks. The town's family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work. Restaurants like The District Bar & Grill and The Local Taphouse are well-known employers.
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Waterloo, IA
Average Salary: $32,327
Waterloo offers a vibrant culinary landscape. Cooks here can work in a range of environments, from casual eateries to fine dining. Local spots like The Blue Door Restaurant and The Boiler Room are popular choices.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $31,735
Cedar Rapids provides a diverse culinary experience. Cooks can find work in both urban and suburban settings. Restaurants such as The Local Taphouse and The Boiler Room offer excellent opportunities.
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Ames, IA
Average Salary: $31,600
Ames is known for its lively food scene. Cooks here enjoy working in a college town with many dining options. Local favorites include The Local Taphouse and The Boiler Room, which offer dynamic work environments.
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Urbandale, IA
Average Salary: $31,138
Urbandale offers a mix of casual and upscale dining options. Cooks can find work in a variety of settings, from family-owned restaurants to larger chains. Companies like The Westin and The Principal Hotel provide excellent opportunities.
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Coralville, IA
Average Salary: $31,000
Coralville provides a welcoming atmosphere for culinary professionals. Cooks here can enjoy a mix of local and chain restaurants. Popular spots like The Blue Door Restaurant and The Local Taphouse offer diverse experiences.
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What are the best paying companies for a Line Cook in Iowa City, IA?

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Courtyard by Marriott
Average Salary: $35,333
Courtyard by Marriott offers exciting opportunities for Line Cooks in Iowa City. This hotel provides a dynamic kitchen environment. Line Cooks here prepare a variety of dishes for guests. The location is central, making it easy for employees to commute.
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Village Inn
Average Salary: $34,000
Village Inn is a popular choice for Line Cooks in Iowa City. This restaurant offers a busy kitchen with a focus on quick service. Line Cooks here work on preparing breakfast and lunch items. The location is convenient, with easy access to public transport.
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Element Hotel
Average Salary: $33,275
Element Hotel provides a modern setting for Line Cooks in Iowa City. This hotel emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Line Cooks here prepare both breakfast and dinner menus. The location is near downtown, offering many amenities for employees.
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Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
Average Salary: $32,410
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel offers a professional environment for Line Cooks in Iowa City. This hotel focuses on quality meals for guests. Line Cooks here prepare a variety of dishes for breakfast and dinner. The location is close to major roads, making it easy to get to work.
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Sam's Pizza
Average Salary: $27,900
Sam's Pizza provides a casual dining experience for Line Cooks in Iowa City. This restaurant specializes in pizza and Italian dishes. Line Cooks here prepare pizzas and other menu items. The location is in a busy area, attracting a lot of customers.
What are the best paying Line Cook related jobs in Iowa City, IA?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $61,986
A restaurant manager oversees daily operations. They ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and staff performs well. This role often involves coordinating with chefs and front-of-house staff.
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Private Chef
Average Salary: $51,338
A private chef prepares meals for individuals or families. They work in homes or private facilities. This job allows for creativity and personalized service.
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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $46,347
A sous chef assists the head chef. They manage kitchen staff and ensure food quality. This role requires strong leadership and culinary skills.
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Cook, Cashier, Food Prep
Average Salary: $34,480
Cooks prepare meals in a fast-paced environment. Cashiers handle transactions and customer service. Food prep workers handle ingredients and setup. These roles work together to serve customers efficiently.
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Dietary Cook
Average Salary: $32,000
A dietary cook prepares meals for specific dietary needs. They work in hospitals or care facilities. This job requires attention to detail and understanding of nutrition.
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Baker
Average Salary: $31,195
A baker creates bread, pastries, and other baked goods. They work in bakeries or restaurants. This role involves following recipes and maintaining quality.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,792
A dishwasher cleans dishes and kitchen equipment. They work in restaurants or cafeterias. This job requires attention to detail and strong work ethic.
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Sandwich Artist
Average Salary: $27,091
A sandwich artist prepares sandwiches and other menu items. They work in fast-food or casual dining restaurants. This role involves customer interaction and speed.
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