Position
Salary
A cook's salary can vary based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a cook is around $35,394. This means that many cooks earn close to this amount each year. Some cooks may earn more, especially if they work in high-end restaurants or have many years of experience.
Cooks can earn different amounts depending on where they work and what they specialize in. For example, a cook in a busy city might earn more than one in a small town. Cooks who specialize in certain types of cuisine, like Italian or French, might also earn more. The salary can also increase with experience and additional skills. Cooks who move up to head chef positions often see a significant increase in their earnings.

San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $50,872
In San Francisco, culinary excellence is key. Many restaurants focus on fresh, local ingredients. Working here offers chances to learn from top chefs.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $48,421
Seattle's food scene is vibrant and diverse. Many chefs here value sustainability. This city offers many opportunities to work in innovative kitchens.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,221
San Jose is a tech hub with a growing food industry. Many local restaurants emphasize creativity. This city provides a dynamic environment for culinary growth.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $45,182
Salinas is known for its agriculture. Many chefs here use fresh, local produce. Working in this city offers a chance to be part of the farm-to-table movement.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $43,717
Boston has a rich culinary history. Many chefs here are passionate about traditional recipes. This city offers many opportunities to learn and innovate in the kitchen.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $43,450
Vallejo offers a mix of urban and coastal cuisine. Many local chefs focus on seafood and fresh ingredients. This city provides a unique culinary experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,232
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures. Many chefs here are creative and diverse. This city offers endless opportunities to explore different cuisines.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $42,836
Santa Rosa is known for its wine country. Many chefs here use fresh, local ingredients. This city offers a chance to be part of a thriving culinary scene.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $42,601
Washington, DC, has a diverse culinary scene. Many chefs here value innovation. This city offers many opportunities to work in high-end restaurants.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $42,420
San Diego offers a mix of coastal and international cuisine. Many chefs here focus on fresh, healthy ingredients. This city provides a vibrant environment for culinary growth.
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Kitchen Craft Cookware
Average Salary: $200,000
Kitchen Craft Cookware offers Cook positions with a focus on high-quality kitchen equipment. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing a dynamic work environment.
State of Illinois
Average Salary: $99,245
The State of Illinois provides Cook jobs in state-run facilities and institutions. They offer competitive salaries and benefits, with locations throughout Illinois.
Culinary Institute of America
Average Salary: $75,429
The Culinary Institute of America offers Cook positions in their renowned culinary schools and restaurants. They provide a unique opportunity to learn and grow in the culinary arts, with locations in Hyde Park, NY, and Napa, CA.
TEEMA
Average Salary: $75,240
TEEMA offers Cook jobs in their hospitality and event management services. They operate in various locations, providing a vibrant and fast-paced work environment.
Scratch Restaurants Group
Average Salary: $69,706
Scratch Restaurants Group offers Cook positions in their casual dining restaurants. They operate in various locations, providing a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.
Sutter Health
Average Salary: $68,783
Sutter Health offers Cook jobs in their healthcare facilities. They provide a supportive work environment with locations throughout California.
Prince Resorts Hawaii
Average Salary: $65,398
Prince Resorts Hawaii offers Cook positions in their luxury resorts. They provide a tropical work environment with locations on the islands of Oahu and Maui.
The Walt Disney Company
Average Salary: $62,470
The Walt Disney Company offers Cook jobs in their theme parks and resorts. They provide a magical and family-friendly work environment with locations in Florida and California.
Northwell Health
Average Salary: $59,087
Northwell Health offers Cook jobs in their healthcare facilities. They provide a supportive work environment with locations throughout New York.
1 Hotels
Average Salary: $56,518
1 Hotels offers Cook positions in their luxury hotels. They provide a stylish and modern work environment with locations in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.
A Cook can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a particular cuisine or cooking style can make a Cook more valuable. For example, mastering French cuisine or becoming a sushi chef can lead to higher-paying positions. Continuous learning and skill improvement are also crucial. Attending workshops, taking online courses, and gaining certifications can enhance a Cook's resume and open up better job opportunities.
Networking plays a significant role in earning more. Building relationships with other chefs, restaurant managers, and industry professionals can lead to job referrals and promotions. Taking on additional responsibilities, such as managing a kitchen or training new staff, can also increase earning potential. Lastly, seeking positions in high-demand areas or prestigious restaurants can lead to higher salaries. Cooks who are willing to relocate for the right opportunity can find better-paying jobs in cities with a high cost of living.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Cook: