How Much Does a Cook make?

Cook made a median salary around $42,332 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $47,680 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $37,459. 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 Fresno, California

Prep Cook

BJ's Restaurants - La Mesa, CA

Prep Cook

BJ's Restaurants - Vacaville, CA

Prep Cook

BJ's Restaurants - Stockton, CA

Line Cook

BJ's Restaurants - Salinas, CA

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Best-Paying Cities for Cook

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Cook profession are San Jose , Santa Clara , Saratoga , Sunnyvale , Los Gatos .
San Jose, CA $53,021
Santa Clara, CA $53,021
Saratoga, CA $53,021
Sunnyvale, CA $53,021
Los Gatos, CA $53,021

Best-Paying States for Cook

The states and districts that pay Cook the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $47,022) , California (around $46,599) , New Jersey (around $46,304) , Alaska (around $46,008) , and Massachusetts (around $45,966) .
District of Columbia $47,022
California $46,599
New Jersey $46,304
Alaska $46,008
Massachusetts $45,966

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 Fresno, CA?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Cook in Fresno, CA earned an average annual salary of $37,459 , while the highest-paid made $47,680.
Q: What is the salary for a Cook in California?
A: Cook employed in California earned an average salary of $46,599 in 2024.

Average Cook Pay vs. Other Jobs

Cook earned an average salary of $42,332 in 2024. Other jobs related to Cook earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Cook III made $46,609 , Cook I made $36,731 , Cook II and Assistant Cook/Cook made $42,057 and $36,573 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Cook

Cook III - Average Salary $46,609
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 $36,731
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 $42,057
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 $36,573
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 $36,985
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.