How much does a Line Cook make?
A Line Cook often works in a busy kitchen, preparing meals quickly and efficiently. The salary for this role varies based on experience and location. On average, a Line Cook makes about $35,449 per year. These earnings can change as a cook gains more experience.
Some factors influence a Line Cook’s salary. Cooks in large cities might earn more due to higher living costs. Also, working in a high-end restaurant often comes with a higher salary compared to a fast-food place. The more years of experience a cook has, the higher their earnings tend to be. In the first years, the salary might be lower, but it grows with experience.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,005
In Seattle, you will find many unique restaurants. Cooks in this city enjoy working with fresh seafood and seasonal produce. Many well-known restaurants hire for line cook positions.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,436
San Francisco offers a vibrant food scene with plenty of restaurants. Line cooks here work in fast-paced kitchens, often serving diverse cuisines. Popular chains and trendy spots look for skilled cooks.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,080
San Jose is a hub for tech companies, leading to a demand for great catering services. Line cooks here prepare meals for large groups. Many large firms have in-house kitchens that need skilled workers.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $43,713
Santa Rosa has a charming mix of restaurants and wineries. Line cooks enjoy preparing meals for tourists and locals alike. The city’s focus on wine means many positions are in winery restaurants.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $41,790
Bend offers a laid-back atmosphere with a growing culinary scene. Line cooks here enjoy a mix of local and modern cuisines. The outdoor lifestyle attracts many adventure seekers, boosting the food service industry.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $41,770
Boston’s rich history shows in its diverse food offerings. Line cooks here must handle a lot of variety. Many renowned restaurants look for experienced cooks to join their teams.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $41,722
Denver has a dynamic food scene with lots of options. Line cooks enjoy working in high-energy kitchens, often serving both local and international dishes. The city’s love for craft beers supports a thriving food service industry.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $41,383
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, offering endless culinary possibilities. Line cooks here work in diverse environments, from casual diners to gourmet restaurants. The city’s entertainment industry boosts demand for catering services.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,280
Boulder’s healthy lifestyle attracts many food-focused businesses. Line cooks here prepare fresh, organic meals. Many restaurants focus on vegetarian and health-conscious cuisine.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $40,559
San Diego offers a laid-back vibe with a strong focus on fresh seafood. Line cooks here enjoy working in kitchens that emphasize quality ingredients. The city’s tourism industry supports a busy food service sector.
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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 competitive salaries and benefits for Line Cook jobs. These positions are available across various military bases and federal facilities nationwide, providing diverse work environments.
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Apple
Average Salary: $61,865
Apple provides Line Cook positions with a focus on wellness and sustainability. Cooks work in on-site cafeterias, supporting employees with healthy meal options at Apple’s main campuses and retail stores.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $61,019
Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers Line Cook roles that come with extensive benefits. These positions can be found at multiple resort locations, allowing for diverse culinary experiences and travel opportunities.
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Snowmass Club
Average Salary: $57,818
The Snowmass Club, located in Colorado, provides excellent opportunities for Line Cooks. These roles involve preparing meals for members and guests, offering a scenic and peaceful working environment.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $54,895
Kaiser Permanente offers Line Cook jobs that focus on health and nutrition. These positions are available in various healthcare facilities, emphasizing the importance of healthy meal options for patients and staff.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $54,575
Hyatt Vacation Ownership offers Line Cook positions at their resorts. These roles involve creating meals for guests, providing a dynamic work environment with opportunities to explore different cuisines.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $52,809
Fontainebleau Las Vegas provides Line Cook roles with exposure to a vibrant culinary scene. These positions are ideal for cooks interested in working in a high-energy, fast-paced environment.
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SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE
Average Salary: $52,286
SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE offers Line Cook jobs with a focus on traditional barbecue. These positions provide hands-on experience in preparing delicious BBQ meals, catering to a diverse clientele.
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The Waterfront Beach Resort
Average Salary: $52,049
The Waterfront Beach Resort offers Line Cook roles with stunning ocean views. These positions involve creating meals for guests, providing a beautiful and relaxing work environment.
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American Cruise Lines
Average Salary: $51,963
American Cruise Lines provides Line Cook positions aboard their riverboats. These roles offer unique experiences and the opportunity to travel while preparing meals for guests.
How to earn more as a Line Cook?
Becoming a Line Cook offers many opportunities to increase earnings. The demand for skilled cooks remains high, and with the right strategies, one can earn more. Experience and skill lead to higher positions and better pay. Building a strong reputation can open doors to more lucrative opportunities.
A Line Cook can boost earnings by focusing on several key factors. Improving efficiency can lead to higher tips and better job security. Mastering knife skills and learning new recipes can make a cook more valuable. Networking with other chefs and restaurant staff can lead to better job opportunities. Continuing education and certifications can also enhance earning potential. Working during peak hours can increase income.
Here are five ways to increase earnings as a Line Cook:
- Improve Efficiency: Fast and accurate preparation can lead to higher tips and a better reputation.
- Develop Skills: Mastering knife skills and learning new recipes can make a cook more valuable.
- Network: Building relationships with other chefs and staff can lead to better job opportunities.
- Continue Education: Certifications and courses can enhance skills and earning potential.
- Work Peak Hours: Scheduling shifts during busy times can increase income.



