How much does a Cake Decorator make?
Cake decorators create beautiful and delicious designs on cakes for various events. They use their artistic skills and knowledge of baking to make cakes look stunning. The average yearly salary for a cake decorator is around $36,612. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer.
Those who start in this field can expect to earn at the lower end of the salary range. As they gain more experience and skills, their salary can increase. Cake decorators can work in bakeries, restaurants, or as freelance artists. Some even start their own cake decorating businesses. Working in larger cities or places with higher living costs usually means higher pay. But even in smaller towns, talented cake decorators can find good jobs and salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cake Decorator?

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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $51,925
In Minneapolis, cake artists thrive in a bustling food scene. Working for companies like Blue Sky Bakery, they create stunning cakes for various events. The vibrant community offers many opportunities for creativity and growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $43,865
San Francisco offers a unique blend of traditional and avant-garde in cake design. Bakers here often work with high-end clients and events. Companies like Cake & Bake Co. set a high standard for artistry and innovation.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $43,408
Denver is known for its love of both natural beauty and gourmet treats. Cake decorators here often find work with local cafes and high-end bakeries. The city’s diverse clientele values creativity and detail.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $43,381
Riverside has a growing market for cake artists. They work with local event planners and caterers, creating cakes for weddings and parties. The warm climate makes for a lively culinary environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,938
In Seattle, cake decorators enjoy a strong coffee culture and a taste for fresh, local ingredients. They often work with trendy bakeries and coffee shops. The city’s design-focused community values unique and artistic cakes.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,311
Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for cake decorators. They work with high-profile clients and large events. The city’s entertainment industry creates a constant demand for creative and elaborate cake designs.
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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $41,000
Lincoln’s cake decorators bring charm and tradition to their work. They often collaborate with local bakeries and caterers. The city’s community events provide steady work and chances to showcase talent.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $40,872
In Honolulu, cake decorators benefit from the island’s vibrant culture. They create beautiful cakes for weddings and luaus. The tropical setting inspires unique and festive designs that reflect the local spirit.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $40,750
Sioux Falls offers a friendly and growing market for cake artists. They work with local events and bakeries, often creating custom designs for weddings and parties. The community’s support for local businesses is strong.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $40,154
Lansing’s cake decorators find work in both local bakeries and event planning companies. They create cakes for weddings, parties, and special events. The city’s supportive community values creativity and craftsmanship.
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What are the best companies a Cake Decorator can work for?

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Cub Foods
Average Salary: $46,664
Cub Foods offers Cake Decorator jobs with opportunities in many locations throughout Minnesota. This company values creativity and attention to detail in its cake decorators. It provides a supportive environment where new ideas can flourish.
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Whole Foods Market
Average Salary: $46,654
Whole Foods Market is known for its healthy lifestyle and offers Cake Decorator positions in many locations across the United States. The company emphasizes organic and locally-sourced ingredients, offering a unique twist to traditional cake decorating.
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Walmart
Average Salary: $46,227
Walmart offers a variety of Cake Decorator jobs at its numerous stores nationwide. The company supports creativity and innovation, encouraging cake decorators to create custom cakes for various occasions.
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Costco Wholesale
Average Salary: $43,882
Costco Wholesale provides Cake Decorator positions in its many locations across the United States. The company prides itself on high-quality products and customer service, offering a dynamic environment for cake decorators.
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Sam's Club
Average Salary: $41,801
Sam's Club offers Cake Decorator jobs in its many locations throughout the country. The company values efficiency and customer satisfaction, providing cake decorators with ample opportunities to showcase their skills.
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Nugget Market
Average Salary: $41,276
Nugget Market offers Cake Decorator positions in many locations across the Western United States. The company emphasizes freshness and quality, offering cake decorators a chance to create delicious and visually appealing cakes.
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Haggen Northwest Fresh
Average Salary: $41,126
Haggen Northwest Fresh provides Cake Decorator jobs in its stores across Washington, Oregon, and California. The company values sustainability and community, offering a unique environment for cake decorators.
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SusieCakes
Average Salary: $41,000
SusieCakes offers Cake Decorator positions in its bakery in New York City. The company is known for its high-quality cakes and personalized service, providing cake decorators with a chance to work in a fast-paced environment.
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Vallarta Supermarkets
Average Salary: $40,817
Vallarta Supermarkets provides Cake Decorator jobs in its stores across California. The company values family and community, offering a warm and welcoming environment for cake decorators.
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Big Y
Average Salary: $40,639
Big Y offers Cake Decorator positions in its stores throughout the Northeast United States. The company emphasizes quality and customer service, providing cake decorators with a chance to work in a supportive and family-oriented environment.
How to earn more as a Cake Decorator?
Becoming a successful cake decorator involves more than just creating beautiful designs. It requires a mix of creativity, skills, and smart strategies. By focusing on certain factors, one can significantly increase their earnings in this field.
Firstly, developing a unique style sets a decorator apart from others. Clients often seek distinctive designs that reflect their personal taste. Mastery of various techniques and styles enhances appeal and can justify higher rates. Secondly, investing in quality tools and materials makes the job easier and the results more impressive. High-quality ingredients and tools lead to better-looking cakes, making them more attractive to clients willing to pay a premium.
A well-maintained online portfolio showcasing past work helps attract more clients. Active social media presence can also bring in new opportunities. Networking with other professionals, such as wedding planners and event coordinators, opens doors to collaborations and referrals. Lastly, continuously learning and adapting to trends ensures that skills remain relevant and competitive.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Develop a unique decorating style
- Invest in quality tools and materials
- Maintain an online portfolio and active social media
- Network with other professionals
- Continuously learn and adapt to trends



