Cooks, Short Order: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 150,420 cooks, short orders, and they earn a median of $35,620/year. The range runs from $24K to $46K. Arizona pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level cooks, short orders start around $24K. The gap between that and the median ($36K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $46K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $46K | N/A |
| Washington | $46K | 1,610 |
| Massachusetts | $45K | 4,100 |
| Hawaii | $41K | 600 |
| Alaska | $40K | 390 |
| Vermont | $39K | 600 |
| California | $39K | 34,490 |
| Nevada | $39K | N/A |
| District of Columbia | $38K | N/A |
| New Mexico | $38K | 1,020 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cooks, short order make?▼
The median cooks, short order salary in the United States is $35,620 per year ($17/hour). Entry-level positions start around $23,770, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,010.
What education do you need to become a cooks, short order?▼
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, short orders?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for cooks, short orders.
What are the highest paying states for cooks, short orders?▼
The highest paying states for cooks, short orders are Arizona ($46,240), Washington ($46,010), Massachusetts ($44,770), Hawaii ($41,100), Alaska ($39,940). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.