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As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Cooks in Missouri is $34,877 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.
However, a Cooks's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Cooks Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $38,687 | $3,224 | $744 | $19 |
| Average | $34,877 | $2,906 | $671 | $17 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,973 | $2,581 | $596 | $15 |
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A Cooks's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Cooks's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Cooks | $34,498 |
| Intermediate Level Cooks | $34,769 |
| Senior Level Cooks | $35,311 |
| Specialist Level Cooks | $36,119 |
| Expert Level Cooks | $37,219 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Cooks. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
For Cooks roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 50% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Pharmaceuticals and Software & Networking sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Cooks positions in Retail & Wholesale or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Cooks as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | $45,341 | $22.0 | 30% |
| Software & Networking | $43,597 | $21.0 | 25% |
| Construction | $41,853 | $20.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $40,109 | $19.0 | 15% |
| Business Services | $38,365 | $18.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Cooks's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $38,687 | $3,224 | $744 | $19 |
| Average | $34,877 | $2,906 | $671 | $17 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,973 | $2,581 | $596 | $15 |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Cooks job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
The Daily Bread, Inc
Saint Louis, MO
The Daily Bread, Inc | Saint Louis, MO
Job Description. Job Description. Full-time or Part-time. Day shifts are: 9 AM - 5 PM Must work 3-5 shifts per week (5 shifts is full time). If you are ene... more
7 Days Ago
Green Franchise (Village Inn)
Springfield, MO
Green Franchise (Village Inn) | Springfield, MO
Line Cooks - Start at $10-$12 per hour. We're always looking for great team members to show a passion to serve. In return, we offer flexible work schedules... more
7 Days Ago
Crazy Bowls and Wraps
Saint Louis, MO
Crazy Bowls and Wraps | Saint Louis, MO
Join the Crazy Bowls & Wraps Team. Are you ready to roll with a fast-paced, high-energy team that's all about serving up fresh, healthy, and delicious food... more
9 Days Ago
Grand Slam Sports Bar & Grill
Fenton, MO
Grand Slam Sports Bar & Grill | Fenton, MO
Job Description. Job Description. Since our family owned & operated restaurant, Grand Slam Restaurant & Bar, opened in 2007, it had become a favorite neigh... more
7 Days Ago
Branson Public Schools
Branson, MO
Branson Public Schools | Branson, MO
Job Posting. Interested persons should fill out the application online. As a political subdivision, employer, recipient of federal funds, and educational i... more
6 Days Ago
Racquet Club Ladue
Saint Louis, MO
Racquet Club Ladue | Saint Louis, MO
Job Description. Job Description. Racquet Club Ladue is currently adding full-time & part-time Pantry & Hot Line Cooks to our growing culinary team. Fun bu... more
7 Days Ago
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