Cooks
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$35,760
~$17/hr · ~$2,980/mo
US Jobs
2.8M
Faster than average
AI & Automation Risk
3/10
Low Risk
AI & Automation Risk
Low Risk 3/10
The core of the job involves physical dexterity, sensory judgment (taste and smell), and real-time adaptation in a high-heat, unpredictable kitchen environment. While AI-driven automation is already impacting fast food and routine institutional cooking, high-end restaurant and private household cooking remain protected by the need for complex manual skills and human creativity.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
City-by-city salary data not available for this occupation. Showing national median only.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Varies by employer
10-Year Growth
+5% (Faster than average)
Hourly Rate
~$17/hr
Monthly Income
~$2,980/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)