Cook Salary in Anchorage, AK
Cooks in Anchorage, AK, in 2025, earn approximately $18.22 per hour, which translates to about $728.80 per week, $3,158.13 per month, and $37,897.60 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Anchorage is looking positive with an expected 5% growth per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities for this role in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Anchorage, AK?
The earnings of a Cook in Anchorage can vary widely depending on experience, establishment type, and skill level. Here's a breakdown of typical salaries based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,158.13 | $37,897.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.55 | $1,262.00 | $5,445.33 | $65,624.00 |
Do Cooks in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than customer service. Their compensation is typically limited to wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Across the United States, Cooks earn an average of about $16.12 per hour, which equals approximately $33,529.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Anchorage earn slightly more, making around $18.22 per hour and $37,897.60 annually. This difference may be influenced by the cost of living and regional demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Cooks
Within Anchorage and its surrounding areas, compensation for Cooks varies:
- Downtown Anchorage: $19.50 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $18.75 per hour
Those working in Downtown Anchorage can typically expect slightly higher wages compared to Midtown.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Anchorage?
Various factors affect how much a Cook earns in Anchorage, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include shift differentials which increase pay.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Completion of culinary programs or certifications can boost a Cook’s earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: Anchorage's demand for culinary professionals affects wages, with high-demand areas offering better salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Anchorage
Starting a career as a Cook in Anchorage is accessible and can be enhanced through education and certification:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Pursuing programs like the Culinary Arts A.A.S. at University of Alaska Anchorage provides hands-on training in cooking techniques, baking, and kitchen management.
- Consider Certificate Programs: The Culinary Arts Occupational Endorsement Certificate at University of Alaska Anchorage prepares students for entry-level kitchen roles with an emphasis on fundamental skills and sanitation.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Achieving credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Food Worker Card, required by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, demonstrates knowledge of critical food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen positions helps build skills and can lead to advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Anchorage
Several prominent employers in Anchorage are consistently hiring Cooks to meet demand:
- Alyeska Resort
- Hotel Captain Cook
- Admiral's Experience, Inc.
Establishments That Cooks in Anchorage Work At
Cooks in Anchorage find opportunities in a diverse range of food service establishments including:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Offering steady hours with moderate wages, suitable for entry-level Cooks.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often emphasize speed and consistency, which can impact pay and the pace of work.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer higher wages and benefits, reflecting their larger scale and diverse menus.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Demand higher culinary skills and may offer premium pay.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary a Cook can expect in Anchorage, with higher-end venues generally providing greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to being a Cook, consider exploring other opportunities in hospitality that share similar skill requirements and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Anchorage
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Cooks working in Anchorage.
- For federal labor statistics and employment laws, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development offers state-specific labor information and resources.
- Local regulations can be found on the Municipality of Anchorage official website.