How much does a Dietary Cook make?
Dietary Cooks play a vital role in preparing meals for patients and staff in healthcare facilities. They earn a competitive salary that reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for a Dietary Cook is around $32,351. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for Dietary Cooks can be quite broad. At the lower end, some cooks earn as little as $23,000 per year. As experience grows, salaries can rise significantly. The highest earners in this field can make up to $45,000 annually. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and advancement in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dietary Cook?

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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $42,846
In Denver, a cook can find work in many hospitals and care facilities. Companies like Denver Health Medical Center offer great opportunities. The city's vibrant culture adds to the work experience.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $41,962
Sacramento provides a range of options for cooks in healthcare settings. Prominent employers include Kaiser Permanente. The city's diverse community enriches the workplace environment.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $40,750
Boulder offers a healthy lifestyle for cooks. Employers like Boulder Community Health are known for their supportive work environment. The scenic beauty of the city enhances the overall experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $40,171
San Jose has many opportunities for cooks in healthcare facilities. Companies like El Camino Health provide excellent career growth. The tech-savvy environment adds a unique twist to the job.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $39,985
In Pittsburgh, cooks can find jobs in various hospitals and care centers. UPMC is a leading employer in the area. The city's rich history and culture make it a great place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $39,005
San Diego offers many opportunities for cooks in healthcare. Scripps Health is a notable employer. The beautiful beaches and mild climate make the job enjoyable.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $38,744
Los Angeles provides numerous opportunities for cooks in healthcare. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is a top employer. The city's entertainment industry adds a lively atmosphere to the workplace.
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Green Bay, WI
Average Salary: $37,844
Green Bay offers a range of opportunities for cooks in healthcare. Bellin Health is a prominent employer. The city's strong community spirit enhances the work experience.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $37,785
Stockton provides many opportunities for cooks in healthcare. St. Joseph's Medical Center is a leading employer. The city's agricultural roots add a unique flavor to the job.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $37,736
Chicago offers a variety of opportunities for cooks in healthcare. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a top employer. The city's vibrant culture and history enrich the work experience.
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What are the best companies a Dietary Cook can work for?

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Del Amo Gardens Care Center
Average Salary: $42,000
Del Amo Gardens Care Center offers rewarding Dietary Cook jobs. They provide nutritious meals to patients and residents. This company operates in Torrance, California.
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Sevita
Average Salary: $41,054
Sevita provides Dietary Cook positions with a focus on health and wellness. They serve communities in various states across the U.S., ensuring high-quality meals for their clients.
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CareOne
Average Salary: $40,733
CareOne offers Dietary Cook jobs with a commitment to excellent patient care. They operate in multiple locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, providing diverse culinary experiences.
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NEW ORANGE HILLS
Average Salary: $40,167
NEW ORANGE HILLS provides Dietary Cook jobs with a focus on creating a warm and welcoming environment. They serve communities in Orange County, California, ensuring delicious and nutritious meals.
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Huntington Retirement
Average Salary: $40,000
Huntington Retirement offers Dietary Cook positions with a dedication to quality care. They operate in Huntington, West Virginia, providing excellent meal services to their residents.
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Morris View Healthcare Center
Average Salary: $39,214
Morris View Healthcare Center provides Dietary Cook jobs with a focus on patient satisfaction. They serve communities in Morris County, New Jersey, ensuring high-quality meals for their residents.
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Medilodge
Average Salary: $39,204
Medilodge offers Dietary Cook positions with a commitment to excellence. They operate in multiple locations across Michigan, providing nutritious meals to their patients and residents.
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Healthcare Services Group
Average Salary: $38,463
Healthcare Services Group provides Dietary Cook jobs with a focus on teamwork and care. They serve communities in various states, ensuring delicious and nutritious meals for their clients.
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Baptist Health South Florida
Average Salary: $38,191
Baptist Health South Florida offers Dietary Cook positions with a commitment to quality care. They operate in multiple locations in South Florida, providing excellent meal services to their patients.
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EPIC Healthcare
Average Salary: $37,929
EPIC Healthcare provides Dietary Cook jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve communities in various states, ensuring delicious and nutritious meals for their residents.
How to earn more as a Dietary Cook?
A Dietary Cook can find many ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on certain areas, a cook can improve their skills and potentially earn more money. One way to earn more is by gaining additional certifications. These can show employers that the cook has specialized skills. Another way is to work in high-demand areas, such as hospitals or large hotels. These places often pay more for experienced cooks.
Improving job performance can also lead to higher pay. This means being reliable, working well with others, and always doing the best job possible. Taking on extra responsibilities, like training new staff, can also lead to higher pay. Finally, seeking out jobs in areas with higher living costs can mean higher wages. Cooks who are willing to relocate can find better-paying jobs in certain cities or regions.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a Dietary Cook:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Work in high-demand areas.
- Improve job performance and take on extra responsibilities.
- Seek out jobs in areas with higher living costs.
- Be willing to relocate for better opportunities.



