How Much Does a Cook make?

Cook made a median salary around $37,976 in April, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $42,774 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $33,607. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Cook jobs in Alamogordo, New Mexico

Cook I

Presbyterian Healthcare Services - Socorro, NM

Kitchen Cook - Urgently Hiring

Taco Bell- Las Vegas (7th st) - Las Vegas, NM

Restaurant Cook - Urgently Hiring

Taco Bell- Las Vegas (7th st) - Las Vegas, NM

Restaurant Cook - Urgently Hiring

Taco Bell- Albuquerque (Paradise Blvd) - Albuquerque, NM

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Best-Paying Cities for Cook

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Cook profession are Capulin , Des Moines , Folsom , Raton , Santa Fe .
Capulin, NM $40,777
Des Moines, NM $40,777
Folsom, NM $40,777
Raton, NM $40,777
Santa Fe, NM $40,233

Best-Paying States for Cook

The states and districts that pay Cook the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $47,138) , California (around $46,959) , Massachusetts (around $46,333) , Washington (around $46,163) , and New Jersey (around $46,146) .
District of Columbia $47,138
California $46,959
Massachusetts $46,333
Washington $46,163
New Jersey $46,146

What is the Career Path of Cook?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Cook, the first career path typically starts with a Sous Chef position , and then progresses to Kitchen Manager.

Additionally, the second career path typically progresses to Pastry Chef.

Besides, Cook can also turn to other related jobs, including Cook III , Cook I , Cook II and Assistant Cook/Cook .

Frequently Asked Questions for Cook

Q: What is the salary range of Cook in Alamogordo, NM?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Cook in Alamogordo, NM earned an average annual salary of $33,607 , while the highest-paid made $42,774.
Q: What is the salary for a Cook in California?
A: Cook employed in California earned an average salary of $46,959 in 2025.

Average Cook Pay vs. Other Jobs

Cook earned an average salary of $37,976 in 2025. Other jobs related to Cook earned the following average salary in April, 2025. Cook III made $41,943 , Cook I made $33,022 , Cook II and Assistant Cook/Cook made $37,978 and $32,910 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Cook

Cook III - Average Salary $41,943
Cook III prepares menu dishes following established recipes and using designated ingredients that meet production and quality standards. Utilizes portion and presentation standards to create appealing and flavorful dishes. Being a Cook III may prepare unique dishes to fulfill customer requests. Follows all applicable guidelines and regulations for food handling and safety. Additionally, Cook III maintains a clean and orderly workstation and kitchen equipment. Typically requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a sous chef or executive chef. The Cook III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. To be a Cook III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Cook I - Average Salary $33,022
Cook I prepares menu dishes following established recipes and using designated ingredients that meet production and quality standards. Utilizes portion and presentation standards to create appealing and flavorful dishes. Being a Cook I may prepare unique dishes to fulfill customer requests. Follows all applicable guidelines and regulations for food handling and safety. Additionally, Cook I maintains a clean and orderly workstation and kitchen equipment. Typically requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a sous chef or executive chef. The Cook I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Cook II - Average Salary $37,978
Cook II prepares menu dishes following established recipes and using designated ingredients that meet production and quality standards. Utilizes portion and presentation standards to create appealing and flavorful dishes. Being a Cook II may prepare unique dishes to fulfill customer requests. Follows all applicable guidelines and regulations for food handling and safety. Additionally, Cook II maintains a clean and orderly workstation and kitchen equipment. Typically requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a sous chef or executive chef. The Cook II works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Cook II typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Assistant Cook/Cook - Average Salary $32,910
There is currently no job description for Assistant Cook/Cook, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Assistant Cook/Cook.
Line Cook - Average Salary $33,318
Line Cook prepares menu dishes following established recipes and using designated ingredients that meet production and quality standards as part of a cooking line. Follows all portion and presentation specifications and proper preparation methods. Being a Line Cook sets up and stocks workstation with all necessary supplies. Coordinates with other line cooks to ensure meals are delivered consistently and on time. Additionally, Line Cook is responsible for operating and maintaining a single workstation. May prepare sauces or garnishes. Follows all applicable guidelines and regulations for food handling and safety. Typically requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a sous chef or executive chef. The Line Cook works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.