Cook salary 2025: median $36,640, top earners near $48,000
The median annual pay for cooks in the U.S. is $36,640, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent estimates. That’s about $17.62 an hour. Half of all cooks earn between roughly $26,730 and $47,520 – a spread that largely depends on experience, location, and establishment type.
How much Cooks earn
The BLS reports a mean hourly wage of $17.83 and a mean annual wage of $37,080. The bottom 10% of cooks earn $26,730 or less; the top 10% earn $47,520 or more.
Pay varies widely by industry. Fine-dining restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than fast-food or institutional kitchens. Overtime is common and can push annual earnings significantly higher.
Pay by state
The highest-paying states for cooks are not provided here, but BLS data consistently show that states with a high cost of living and strong tourism industries — like Hawaii, Massachusetts, and California — often top the list. Lower-paying states typically include those in the South and rural areas, such as Mississippi and Arkansas. For exact figures, refer to the latest BLS state rankings.
How to become Cook
Most cooks learn on the job. No formal education is required beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, though many attend culinary or vocational programs. Entry-level positions like prep cook or line cook are common starting points.
A food handler’s card or ServSafe certification is often required by employers or local health departments. Advancement to sous chef or head chef typically demands years of experience and possibly a culinary degree.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level kitchen jobs; training is usually provided.
- Earn food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe) within first few months.
- Consider a culinary arts certificate or associate degree for faster advancement.
Job outlook
The BLS does not project growth for the broad “Cooks” occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, demand for cooks is closely tied to population growth and dining trends. The occupation is large – 2,651,090 jobs nationwide – so turnover creates steady openings regardless of growth rate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a cook in the US?
The average (mean) salary is about $37,080 per year, or $17.83 per hour. The median is $36,640.
What is the hourly pay for a cook?
The median hourly wage is about $17.62. The lowest 10% earn below $12.85, and the highest 10% earn above $22.85.
How many cooks are employed in the US?
As of the most recent BLS data, there are about 2,651,090 cooks employed nationally.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Cooks data.