How much does a Line Cook make?
A Line Cook is an important part of the kitchen team in any restaurant. They prepare food quickly and safely. The job can be busy and fast-paced. Line Cooks play a key role in making sure the kitchen runs smoothly.
The salary for a Line Cook can vary based on experience, location, and the type of restaurant. On average, Line Cooks earn around $35,896 a year. This is the average amount many cooks make in a year. Here are some details to know about Line Cook salaries:
- 10% of Line Cooks make less than $24,000 a year.
- 25% of Line Cooks make between $24,000 and $28,727 a year.
- 50% of Line Cooks make between $28,727 and $35,818 a year.
- 75% of Line Cooks make between $35,818 and $40,545 a year.
- 90% of Line Cooks make less than $42,909 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook?

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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $49,466
In Eugene, cooks in bustling kitchens enjoy a laid-back atmosphere. With establishments like The Eugene Brewing Company, line cooks can expect a mix of casual dining and vibrant food scenes. The community's love for fresh produce makes it a great place for culinary creativity.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,796
Seattle's culinary scene offers line cooks a dynamic work environment. Working in renowned places like Canlis and Paseo, chefs will experience high energy and a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Seattle's coffee culture also enriches the dining experience here.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,646
In San Francisco, line cooks can find themselves in a diverse and innovative food environment. Places like Zuni Café and Tartine Bakery attract talented chefs. The city's rich culinary history and vibrant food culture offer endless opportunities for growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,111
San Jose offers line cooks a tech-driven dining scene with unique dining experiences. Working in kitchens at places like The French Laundry, cooks will enjoy a fast-paced environment. The city's proximity to Silicon Valley adds a modern twist to traditional cuisines.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $44,679
Santa Rosa provides line cooks with a charming and relaxed dining scene. Working at restaurants like Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, chefs can enjoy a slower pace. The city's focus on farm-to-table dining offers a chance to work with fresh, local ingredients.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $42,941
In Bend, line cooks will find a growing culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Restaurants like The Bison offer a chance to explore new recipes. The outdoor lifestyle and community-focused environment make it a rewarding place to work.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $42,319
Denver's diverse food scene offers line cooks a variety of opportunities. Working in kitchens at places like Blackmarket Liquors, chefs can experience a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. The city's vibrant culture and craft beer scene add to the culinary experience.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $42,319
Boston's rich culinary history provides line cooks with a unique work experience. Working in famous spots like Legal Sea Foods, chefs can enjoy a blend of classic and innovative dishes. The city's food culture and educational institutions offer plenty of learning opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,152
In Los Angeles, line cooks can find themselves in a diverse and bustling culinary environment. Working at places like Guelaguetza, chefs will experience a vibrant food scene. The city's mix of cultures and culinary trends offer endless inspiration.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,282
Boulder provides line cooks with a healthy and innovative dining scene. Working in kitchens at places like the Pearl Street Market, chefs can enjoy a focus on fresh, organic ingredients. The city's outdoor lifestyle and community spirit enhance the culinary experience.
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What are the best companies a Line Cook can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $63,494
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Line Cooks in its various locations. These roles focus on preparing food quickly and efficiently. Apple has offices in many major cities.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $58,574
Hyatt Vacation Ownership provides Line Cook jobs in several locations. These positions involve working in busy kitchen environments. Hyatt operates in many vacation spots worldwide.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $57,226
Marriott Vacations Worldwide hires Line Cooks for its various properties. These roles include preparing food to meet high standards. Marriott has a presence in many popular destinations.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $56,761
Kaiser Permanente offers Line Cook jobs in its cafeterias and dining areas. These positions require teamwork and attention to detail. Kaiser has locations across the United States.
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Willows Lodge
Average Salary: $55,323
Willows Lodge provides Line Cook positions in scenic areas. These roles involve creating delicious meals. The lodge is located in beautiful settings.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $54,835
Fontainebleau Las Vegas hires Line Cooks for its high-energy kitchens. These roles focus on quick and efficient meal preparation. The hotel is in the heart of Las Vegas.
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The Waterfront Beach Resort
Average Salary: $53,762
The Waterfront Beach Resort offers Line Cook jobs with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. These positions involve working in a lively kitchen. The resort is located near a beach.
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SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE
Average Salary: $52,353
SMOKEYS BAR-B-QUE provides Line Cook jobs in its barbecue restaurants. These roles require a passion for cooking and teamwork. The restaurant is in several locations.
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Atria Senior Living
Average Salary: $51,561
Atria Senior Living offers Line Cook positions in its dining facilities. These roles focus on preparing meals for seniors. Atria has many locations across the country.
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EVANS HOTELS
Average Salary: $50,375
EVANS HOTELS hires Line Cooks for its properties. These roles involve preparing meals in busy settings. The hotel chain has locations in various cities.
How to earn more as a Line Cook?
Looking to increase earnings as a Line Cook? Focus on key areas to boost performance and income. Start by mastering efficiency and consistency in your tasks. Speed and accuracy reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction. These qualities can lead to higher tips and potential promotions.
Building strong relationships with team members and management matters. Being reliable and supportive creates a positive work environment. This fosters teamwork and can open doors to more opportunities. Engaging with colleagues well can lead to references and recommendations, which are valuable when seeking higher-paying positions. Developing these relationships helps in creating a supportive network within the industry. A positive reputation can lead to better job offers and salary increases.
Consider these factors to earn more as a Line Cook:
- Master speed and accuracy in tasks.
- Build strong relationships with team members.
- Engage positively with colleagues and management.
- Seek opportunities for additional responsibilities.
- Look for positions with higher tips potential.



