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

The average salary for a Line Cook is $43,609 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

In Santa Cruz, CA, a line cook's salary can vary based on experience and skill. Most line cooks earn between $35,500 and $53,580 per year. The average yearly salary stands at about $43,609. This range provides a good overview of what someone might expect to earn in this role.

The salary figures are influenced by factors such as the type of restaurant and the cook's experience. Restaurants that specialize in gourmet dining often offer higher wages compared to casual dining establishments. Experienced cooks with many years in the industry typically earn more than those just starting out. Factors like additional certifications or specialization in certain cuisines can also affect earnings.

Line Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA, offer competitive pay for line cook jobs. Watsonville leads with an average salary of $52,445. Line cooks in Scotts Valley can also expect strong earnings, with an average salary of $51,025. Other nearby cities like Los Gatos and Palo Alto provide similarly attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Line Cook jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Watsonville, CA with the highest at $52,445 and Big Sur, CA with the lowest at $43,790.
  1. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $52,445
    In Watsonville, working as a cook means being part of the vibrant food scene. The city is known for its agricultural roots, making fresh produce readily available. Restaurants like Watsonville Fish Company offer opportunities to work with local ingredients.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Watsonville, CA


  2. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $51,025
    Scotts Valley boasts a friendly community and a growing food industry. Cooks here can find work in family-owned restaurants and upscale dining establishments. The area’s focus on quality ingredients provides a great environment for culinary creativity.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  3. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $50,165
    Los Gatos offers a dynamic culinary environment with many well-known restaurants. Cooks can expect to work in establishments that emphasize fresh, local foods. Popular spots like The Red Coach Inn provide a chance to work in a high-profile setting.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  4. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $47,271
    Palo Alto’s diverse culinary scene presents numerous opportunities for cooks. The city's tech-savvy population enjoys a variety of dining options. Restaurants like Evelyn’s Kitchen give cooks a chance to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  5. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $47,000
    Pacific Grove is known for its picturesque coastal charm. Cooks can enjoy working in scenic settings with access to fresh seafood. The town’s focus on quality dining allows cooks to refine their skills in a relaxing yet productive atmosphere.
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  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $45,619
    San Jose’s bustling food industry offers many opportunities for cooks. The city’s diverse population supports a wide range of restaurants. Cooks can work in well-established eateries like Café del Rey or newer spots like The Grind Café.
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  7. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $45,368
    Hollister provides a laid-back setting for cooks to work in. The city is known for its agricultural background, providing plenty of fresh ingredients. Restaurants like Don Juan’s Mexican Restaurant offer a chance to work in a welcoming environment.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Hollister, CA


  8. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    Average Salary: $44,233
    Carmel-by-the-Sea’s scenic beauty and upscale dining culture make it an attractive place for cooks. The town's focus on fine dining allows cooks to work in elegant settings. Popular restaurants like The Salmon House provide an opportunity to work in a refined atmosphere.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA


  9. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $44,000
    Saratoga offers a charming small-town environment with a variety of dining options. Cooks can enjoy working in cozy restaurants and cafes. The town’s vibrant community creates a supportive environment for culinary professionals.
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  10. Big Sur, CA
    Average Salary: $43,790
    Big Sur’s remote and stunning location provides a unique culinary experience. Cooks can enjoy the serene environment while working in quaint, often upscale restaurants. The area’s focus on fresh, local ingredients makes for a rewarding work experience.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Big Sur, CA

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

La Bahia Hotel & Spa pays the most for line cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA. The average salary is around $50,000, which is higher than most local competitors. Vim, Remington Hospitality, and Verve Coffee Roasters also offer competitive pay for line cooks.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Line Cook jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting La Bahia Hotel & Spa with the highest at $50,037 and 11th Hour Coffee, LLC with the lowest at $35,500.
  1. La Bahia Hotel & Spa
    Average Salary: $50,037
    At La Bahia Hotel & Spa in Santa Cruz, Line Cooks work in a bustling environment. They prepare a variety of meals for hotel guests and in the on-site restaurant. They operate in a chic, beachside setting, offering a dynamic culinary experience.


  2. Vim
    Average Salary: $45,000
    Vim in Santa Cruz offers a vibrant kitchen where Line Cooks can thrive. They prepare fresh, creative dishes in a casual yet refined atmosphere. This trendy restaurant focuses on modern, locally-sourced cuisine.


  3. Remington Hospitality
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Remington Hospitality operates several eateries in Santa Cruz. Line Cooks here focus on high-quality, consistent service. They work in a fast-paced environment, ensuring that the dishes meet the high standards of the brand.


  4. Verve Coffee Roasters
    Average Salary: $38,660
    Verve Coffee Roasters in Santa Cruz has a unique niche in the market. Line Cooks work in a cozy, artisanal setting, preparing meals that complement their specialty coffee. They enjoy a creative atmosphere, focusing on fresh and seasonal ingredients.


  5. 11th Hour Coffee, LLC
    Average Salary: $35,500
    At 11th Hour Coffee, LLC in Santa Cruz, Line Cooks contribute to a small yet dedicated team. They work in a casual coffee shop environment, preparing simple, delicious meals that pair well with specialty coffee. This company emphasizes a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Currently 10,773 Line Cook job openings, nationwide.

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Line Cook
10,773 Job Openings