Cooks, Restaurant: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 1,452,130 cooks, restaurants, and they earn a median of $36,830/year. The range runs from $28K to $47K. Massachusetts pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level cooks, restaurants start around $28K. The gap between that and the median ($37K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $47K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $46K | 31,640 |
| District of Columbia | $45K | 8,020 |
| Washington | $45K | 34,790 |
| Maine | $45K | 4,920 |
| Hawaii | $45K | 12,190 |
| Vermont | $45K | 2,710 |
| California | $44K | 160,270 |
| New York | $40K | 62,430 |
| New Hampshire | $39K | 6,980 |
| Rhode Island | $39K | 6,490 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, restaurant make?▼
The median cooks, restaurant salary in the United States is $36,830 per year ($18/hour). Entry-level positions start around $28,010, while experienced professionals earn up to $47,340.
What education do you need to become a cooks, restaurant?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for cooks, restaurants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for cooks, restaurants.
What are the highest paying states for cooks, restaurants?▼
The highest paying states for cooks, restaurants are Massachusetts ($46,280), District of Columbia ($45,230), Washington ($44,980), Maine ($44,870), Hawaii ($44,710). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.