Cooks Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Cooks in the United States is $36,640 per year — about $18 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $30,370 and $43,100 a year.
Salary range
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Frequently asked questions
How much do Cooks make in the US?
The median salary is $36,640 per year (about $18 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $30,370 and $43,100 a year.
How much do Cooks make per hour?
About $18 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $36,640 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Cooks?
Typical entry-level education: Varies by employer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
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