Cook Salary in Alexandria, VA
Cooks in Alexandria, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.49 per hour, which translates to about $739.60 per week, $3,204.93 per month, and $38,459.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Alexandria is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for culinary professionals as the city's dining scene expands.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Alexandria, VA?
The salary of a Cook in Alexandria, VA varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for Cooks at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.32 | $612.80 | $2,646.13 | $31,753.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.49 | $739.60 | $3,204.93 | $38,459.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.31 | $892.40 | $3,860.53 | $46,395.20 |
Do Cooks in Alexandria Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Alexandria vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.08 per hour, corresponding to about $33,446.40 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Alexandria earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $18.49 and an annual salary of approximately $38,459.20.
This difference is partly due to the higher cost of living in Alexandria and the rising demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Alexandria for Cooks
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Cooks:
- Old Town: $19.50 per hour
- Del Ray: $18.70 per hour
Cooks working in Old Town tend to earn the highest wages among nearby neighborhoods, followed closely by Del Ray.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Alexandria?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Cook in Alexandria:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than in casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications or formal training can increase opportunities for higher pay.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Night or weekend shifts sometimes offer premium pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Alexandria’s vibrant dining culture and cost of living influence wages upward.
How To Become a Cook in Alexandria
Becoming a Cook in Alexandria involves several important steps that can enhance your prospects and earning potential.
First, completing formal culinary training can provide foundational skills and knowledge. Notable programs include the Culinary Arts Program at Northern Virginia Community College and the Professional Cooking Program at Stratford University, both offering comprehensive culinary education and kitchen management training.
Additionally, acquiring food safety certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial, ensuring compliance with Virginia's health and safety standards.
For those seeking to demonstrate professional competency, earning a Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can be a valuable credential.
Gaining practical experience by working in kitchens and progressively taking on more responsibility is also essential.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Alexandria
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Cooks in Alexandria include:
- Alexandria Restaurant Partners
- The Majestic
- Virtue Feed & Grain
Establishments That Cooks in Alexandria Work At
Cooks in Alexandria typically find employment in a diverse range of establishments, each impacting salary levels differently.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These are common workplaces offering regular shifts but often with moderate pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Due to higher skill demands and customer expectations, these establishments often offer higher wages.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: They may provide consistent hours and benefits with competitive pay.
- Institutional Settings: Hospitals, schools, and corporate cafeterias employ Cooks, sometimes offering stable compensation but less opportunity for tips or bonuses.
The type and prestige of the establishment play an important role in the overall earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Alexandria for Cooks
If you're interested in exploring roles similar to Cook, consider these related positions in Alexandria's hospitality industry:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Commis Chef, all of which share culinary responsibilities and offer different salary trajectories within the kitchen hierarchy.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Alexandria
Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements specific to Alexandria and Virginia to ensure fair working conditions and proper payroll management.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia state labor laws and employment resources are available on the Virginia government website.