How much does a Line Cook make?
A Line Cook plays a key role in any kitchen. They prepare food quickly and efficiently. They work hard under pressure. The job can be rewarding in more ways than one. The average yearly salary for a Line Cook is about $36,072. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of restaurant.
Line Cooks often start at the lower end of the salary scale. With time and experience, they can move up. For example, those in the 10th percentile earn around $24,000. Those in the 90th percentile can earn as much as $50,000. A few factors affect this salary range. Location matters a lot. Urban areas tend to pay more. Also, experience and skill level play a big part. The more experienced a Line Cook is, the higher they can earn.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook?

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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $52,247
In Eugene, chefs prepare meals with a focus on local ingredients. Eugene’s food scene thrives, offering many dining options. Chefs often work in busy environments, ensuring timely and quality service.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $48,880
Santa Rosa features a vibrant culinary scene. Here, cooks craft dishes that highlight seasonal produce. With various restaurants and cafes, chefs can find diverse opportunities to grow their skills.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $48,229
Seattle's culinary landscape is rich and diverse. Chefs here create fresh, innovative dishes. The city’s strong seafood culture means a focus on quality ingredients. This city offers many opportunities for skilled cooks.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,992
San Francisco's chefs work in a dynamic culinary environment. The city offers a variety of dining experiences. Cooks often adapt to different styles and flavors. The bustling food scene provides ample opportunities for professional growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,619
San Jose boasts a thriving food scene. Chefs here focus on preparing a mix of traditional and modern dishes. The city’s diverse population leads to a variety of culinary influences. Many restaurants offer a chance to showcase cooking talents.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $43,642
Bend’s culinary scene blends local and modern cuisine. Chefs here emphasize fresh, local ingredients. The city’s growing popularity attracts food enthusiasts. Cooks can find fulfilling roles in various restaurants and cafes.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $42,896
Denver’s culinary environment is vibrant and diverse. Chefs here prepare dishes that reflect both local and global influences. The city’s food scene is dynamic, offering many opportunities for growth. Many restaurants value creativity and skill in their kitchens.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,528
Los Angeles offers a dynamic culinary experience. Chefs create dishes that reflect the city's diversity. The bustling restaurant scene provides many opportunities. Cooks can find roles in various types of establishments, from casual diners to fine dining restaurants.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $42,209
Boston’s culinary scene is rich with tradition and innovation. Chefs here blend classic and modern techniques. The city’s vibrant food culture offers many opportunities. Boston’s diverse dining options provide a platform for culinary excellence.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $42,018
Boulder's culinary landscape is influenced by its health-conscious community. Chefs create dishes that are fresh and wholesome. The city’s diverse dining options cater to various tastes. Cooks here can thrive in a supportive and innovative environment.
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What are the best companies a Line Cook can work for?

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Fatburger
Average Salary: $135,207
Fatburger offers competitive salaries for Line Cooks. They have a fun, fast-paced environment. Locations include cities across the U.S. and internationally.
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Nick The Greek
Average Salary: $62,000
Nick The Greek provides a welcoming atmosphere for Line Cooks. They focus on family-friendly service. Locations are spread across the Midwest and Southeast U.S.
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Phoenix College
Average Salary: $61,200
Phoenix College offers rewarding Line Cook positions. They emphasize training and development. Their kitchens are located in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Flagship Facility Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $56,899
Flagship Facility Services, Inc. provides Line Cook jobs with good benefits. They manage dining facilities in multiple states across the U.S.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $55,938
Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers a variety of Line Cook positions. They focus on professional growth. Locations include resorts across the U.S. and globally.
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Willows Lodge
Average Salary: $55,866
Willows Lodge provides Line Cook roles in a serene setting. They prioritize employee well-being. The lodge is located in New Zealand.
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Exact Sciences
Average Salary: $54,821
Exact Sciences offers Line Cook positions with good benefits. They focus on innovation and employee support. Their facilities are in Wisconsin and California.
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The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel
Average Salary: $54,277
The Waterfront Beach Resort offers a dynamic environment for Line Cooks. They provide professional development opportunities. The resort is located in Panama City Beach, Florida.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $53,856
Fontainebleau Las Vegas offers Line Cook positions in an exciting setting. They emphasize teamwork and customer service. The resort is located in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Smokey's Bar-B-Que
Average Salary: $52,727
Smokey's Bar-B-Que provides a family-friendly atmosphere for Line Cooks. They focus on quality service. Locations include several states in the U.S.
How to earn more as a Line Cook?
A line cook has the chance to earn more with the right approach. Increasing your salary and job satisfaction starts with several key factors. By focusing on these areas, a line cook can move up the career ladder and earn a higher salary.
First, gaining experience plays a big role. Working in different kitchens and learning a variety of dishes helps a cook become more valuable. Second, mastering kitchen skills ensures that tasks are done quickly and correctly. Third, taking on extra responsibilities shows leadership and reliability. Fourth, pursuing certifications can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Finally, networking with other professionals can lead to better opportunities. Following these steps can help a line cook earn more and find job satisfaction.
Consider these factors for professional growth:
- Gain experience by working in various kitchens.
- Master kitchen skills to work faster and better.
- Take on extra responsibilities to show leadership.
- Pursue certifications to enhance your qualifications.
- Network with other professionals to find new opportunities.



