How much does a Line Cook make?
A Line Cook plays a key role in the kitchen, preparing meals quickly and efficiently. The average yearly salary for a Line Cook is around $35,187. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Cooks in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may earn more. Those with more experience often see higher pay as well.
The salary range for Line Cooks can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $23,000 per year. The top 10% earn around $48,000 or more. This range shows that there are opportunities for growth and higher earnings with more experience and skill. Cooks who take on additional responsibilities or specialize in certain types of cuisine may see higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $46,466
In Seattle, culinary talent thrives in a vibrant food scene. With a strong presence of seafood and farm-to-table restaurants, chefs have ample opportunities to showcase their skills. Notable companies like Ivar's and The Pink Door offer dynamic environments for cooks.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,652
San Francisco's diverse culinary landscape provides a rich environment for cooks. The city's focus on fresh, local ingredients creates a unique setting for culinary creativity. Companies like Zuni Café and Tartine Bakery are known for their innovative approaches.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $43,551
San Jose offers a bustling food industry with a mix of traditional and modern cuisines. The tech-driven environment brings a fast-paced atmosphere to the kitchen. Restaurants like The French Laundry and Gary Danko provide excellent platforms for professional growth.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $43,331
Santa Rosa's culinary scene is known for its farm-to-table philosophy. The city's vineyards and orchards provide fresh ingredients for local chefs. Working at establishments like The Restaurant at Meadowood offers a chance to be part of a prestigious culinary tradition.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $41,543
Denver's food culture is vibrant and diverse, with a strong emphasis on local produce. The city's growing food scene offers many opportunities for chefs to experiment with new flavors. Restaurants like The Kitchen and The Laughing Oyster provide dynamic and innovative culinary experiences.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $41,476
Boston's rich culinary history offers a unique backdrop for cooks. The city's seafood scene is legendary, providing a wealth of opportunities for chefs. Working at establishments like Legal Sea Foods or O Ya can offer a taste of Boston's iconic flavors.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $41,472
Bend's culinary scene is a blend of rustic charm and modern innovation. The city's focus on local ingredients and sustainable practices creates a unique environment for chefs. Restaurants like The Old Town Deli and The Source offer a chance to be part of a growing food community.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,254
Boulder's vibrant food scene is known for its health-conscious and organic ingredients. The city's progressive dining culture offers many opportunities for chefs to innovate. Working at places like The Laughing Goat or The Bison offers a chance to be part of a forward-thinking culinary movement.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $40,874
Los Angeles' diverse culinary landscape offers endless opportunities for chefs. The city's fusion of cultures creates a dynamic and ever-evolving food scene. Restaurants like Guelaguetza and Bestia provide a chance to work in a vibrant and innovative environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $40,277
San Diego's culinary scene is a blend of coastal flavors and international influences. The city's sunny climate and fresh seafood make it a perfect place for chefs to thrive. Working at restaurants like The Fish Market or The Cottage offers a chance to be part of a thriving food community.
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What are the best companies a Line Cook can work for?

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U.S. Government
Average Salary: $66,000
The U.S. Government offers rewarding Line Cook positions across various locations. These roles provide stability and benefits. Opportunities exist in military bases, national parks, and federal buildings nationwide.
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Apple
Average Salary: $60,956
Apple provides dynamic Line Cook jobs in its corporate cafeterias and retail stores. These positions offer a fast-paced environment with opportunities for growth. Locations include major cities across the United States.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $60,219
Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers Line Cook jobs in its resorts and hotels. These roles provide a chance to work in beautiful settings. Locations include popular vacation destinations across the United States and internationally.
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swipejobs
Average Salary: $55,781
swipejobs connects job seekers with various employers, including restaurants and hotels. This platform offers competitive Line Cook salaries. Opportunities are available in many cities across the country.
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Cavallo Point
Average Salary: $54,590
Cavallo Point offers prestigious Line Cook jobs in its luxury hotel and restaurant. These positions provide a chance to work in a high-end environment. The company operates in beautiful locations in California.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $53,524
Kaiser Permanente offers Line Cook jobs in its healthcare facilities. These roles provide a stable work environment with excellent benefits. Locations include major cities in California and other states.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $52,472
Hyatt Vacation Ownership provides Line Cook jobs in its resorts. These positions offer a chance to work in luxurious settings. Locations include popular vacation spots across the United States.
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Mohegan Sun
Average Salary: $52,171
Mohegan Sun offers Line Cook jobs in its casinos and hotels. These roles provide a vibrant work environment. The company operates in Connecticut and other states.
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The Waterfront Beach Resort
Average Salary: $52,049
The Waterfront Beach Resort offers Line Cook jobs in its beachfront locations. These positions provide a chance to work in scenic settings. The company operates in popular beach destinations.
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Four Seasons
Average Salary: $51,829
Four Seasons offers Line Cook jobs in its luxury hotels and resorts. These roles provide a chance to work in high-end environments. Locations include popular destinations worldwide.
How to earn more as a Line Cook?
Aspiring Line Cooks can enhance their earning potential through various strategies. Gaining experience in high-volume kitchens can lead to better pay. Fast-paced environments often require skilled cooks who can handle pressure, which can translate to higher wages. Additionally, mastering a wide range of dishes allows a cook to be more versatile, making them more valuable to employers. Continuous learning and skill improvement can also open doors to higher-paying positions.
Certifications and specialized training can significantly boost a Line Cook's salary. Programs that focus on culinary arts, kitchen management, or specific cuisines can set a cook apart. Networking within the industry can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Seeking out positions in upscale restaurants or hotels can also result in higher pay. Finally, demonstrating leadership skills and taking on additional responsibilities can lead to promotions and salary increases.
Here are five factors that can help a Line Cook earn more:
- Gain experience in high-volume kitchens.
- Get certified in culinary arts or specialized training.
- Network within the culinary industry.
- Seek positions in upscale restaurants or hotels.
- Demonstrate leadership skills and take on additional responsibilities.



