How much does a Line Cook make?
Line cooks play a vital role in the food service industry. Their main job is to prepare meals quickly and efficiently. They work in busy kitchens and often have to handle a lot at once. The average yearly salary for a line cook is around $35,769. This amount can change based on many factors, such as experience, location, and the type of restaurant.
In different parts of the country, salaries can vary quite a bit. For example, line cooks in larger cities tend to earn more. Their jobs often come with more responsibilities and a faster pace. Cooks with more experience usually see higher pay as well. Over time, they build skills that make them more valuable. Cooks who work in high-end restaurants or special types of cuisine can also earn more. Their jobs may require more training and skill.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook?

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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $49,154
In Eugene, Oregon, a culinary role offers a mix of fast-paced action and creativity. With the University of Oregon nearby, the city's diverse dining scene provides many opportunities. Restaurants like B Street Market and The Elephant attract food lovers, making it an exciting place to cook.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,729
Seattle's culinary scene thrives on fresh ingredients and a love for seafood. Working as a Line Cook here means keeping up with a high demand in a vibrant environment. With popular spots like Canlis and The Pink Door, there are plenty of chances to gain experience in a dynamic kitchen.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,598
In San Francisco, being a Line Cook means enjoying a bustling kitchen with a focus on both innovation and tradition. The city's diverse population offers a rich culinary landscape. Working at renowned establishments like Boudin Bakery or Tartine Bakery can offer valuable experience in a competitive kitchen.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,972
San Jose's tech-savvy atmosphere brings an energetic vibe to its kitchens. A Line Cook here will work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on efficiency. Locations like the Winchester Mystery House offer unique dining experiences, providing a chance to learn from established chefs.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $44,338
Santa Rosa's culinary scene is known for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. A Line Cook in this city enjoys working in a supportive environment. With restaurants such as The Red Wagon, chefs have the chance to create delicious, locally-sourced meals.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $42,822
Bend's kitchen culture is vibrant and community-focused. Here, a Line Cook will work in a variety of settings, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The outdoor lifestyle of the area often influences the menu, offering fresh, local ingredients to work with.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $42,138
Boston offers a rich culinary history and a dynamic food scene. A Line Cook in Boston will find themselves in a kitchen that values tradition and innovation. With famous spots like Legal Sea Foods and The Butcher Shop, there are many opportunities to learn from seasoned chefs.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $42,123
In Denver, the culinary scene is growing and diverse. A Line Cook here will experience a mix of styles and flavors. With restaurants like The Commoner and Snooze, chefs have the chance to work in an innovative kitchen that values quality and creativity.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,080
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and its kitchens reflect this diversity. A Line Cook in LA will enjoy a fast-paced environment with a focus on fresh, bold flavors. Working at places like Gjelina or Bestia can offer valuable experience in a busy, exciting kitchen.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,229
Boulder's community-focused environment creates a welcoming kitchen atmosphere. A Line Cook here will work in a kitchen that values sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients. With restaurants like Elway's and The County Seat, chefs have the chance to create delicious meals that reflect the area's unique character.
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What are the best companies a Line Cook can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $61,480
Apple is known for innovation in technology, and this extends to their food services. Line Cooks work in the company's cafeterias, providing meals for employees. Apple operates globally, with campuses in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $58,103
Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers Line Cooks the chance to work in luxury resorts. These professionals prepare meals for guests in Marriott's properties around the world. They are based in locations like Hawaii, Florida, and California.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $57,241
At Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Line Cooks contribute to a dining experience in their vacation resorts. They work in kitchens across the U.S., from the beaches of Florida to the mountains of Colorado.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $56,069
Kaiser Permanente provides healthcare, but they also have cafeteria services for employees and patients. Line Cooks prepare nutritious meals in Kaiser's medical facilities across the Western U.S.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $54,835
Fontainebleau Las Vegas employs Line Cooks to cater to the diverse dining needs of their guests. They work in high-energy kitchen environments, providing meals in various hotel restaurants.
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Atria Senior Living
Average Salary: $54,072
Atria Senior Living focuses on dining for their residents. Line Cooks play a key role in making daily meals. This company has communities across the U.S., from New York to California.
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The Waterfront Beach Resort
Average Salary: $53,471
The Waterfront Beach Resort needs Line Cooks to prepare meals for tourists and locals. These professionals work in a seaside setting, creating delicious dishes for guests.
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SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE
Average Salary: $52,316
SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE is a well-known barbecue chain. Line Cooks here are key to making tasty barbecue dishes. The company has several locations across the U.S.
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EVANS HOTELS
Average Salary: $50,282
EVANS HOTELS needs Line Cooks for their on-site dining areas. These cooks prepare meals for guests in locations like Colorado and California.
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Soho House & Co.
Average Salary: $50,064
Soho House & Co. offers a unique dining experience in their clubs. Line Cooks here work to create menus that impress members and guests. They operate in select cities worldwide.
How to earn more as a Line Cook?
Elevating earnings as a Line Cook involves a blend of skill enhancement, efficiency, and strategic workplace interactions. Mastery of kitchen techniques and attention to detail can significantly boost performance and, subsequently, income. A Line Cook who consistently produces high-quality dishes quickly can often earn more through tips and potential bonuses. Engaging in continuous learning through workshops or online courses can also open up pathways to higher-paying positions.
Building strong relationships with colleagues and management can lead to recognition and more opportunities for advancement. A positive attitude and reliability can set a Line Cook apart, paving the way for promotions or shifts with higher pay rates. Seeking out positions in high-demand areas or peak times can also increase earning potential. Keeping an open line of communication with supervisors about the desire for more responsibility or higher compensation can lead to negotiated raises or better-paid roles.
Below are key factors to consider:
- Enhance kitchen skills through training and practice.
- Strive for efficiency and quality in food preparation.
- Build positive relationships with colleagues and management.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas or during peak times.
- Communicate career goals and salary expectations to supervisors.



