Cook Salary in Athens, GA
Cooks in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.40 per hour, which translates to about $576.00 per week, $2,496.00 per month, and $29,952.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Athens is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the culinary sector within the city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Cook in Athens varies based on experience and skills. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.39 | $455.60 | $1,971.73 | $23,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.40 | $576.00 | $2,496.00 | $29,952.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,144.53 | $37,817.60 |
Do Cooks in Athens Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role focuses on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income generally comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Athens, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which amounts to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Athens earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $14.40 and an annual salary of $29,952. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Cooks
When considering areas near Athens, salary expectations for Cooks improve in some locations:
- Downtown Athens: $15.50 per hour
- Five Points: $17.60 per hour
These areas offer higher pay rates, reflecting differences in establishment types and demand for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Athens?
Several factors play a significant role in determining how much a Cook can earn in Athens:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with a broader skill set generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often comes with better pay compared to fast food or casual eateries.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts sometimes offer shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary certifications or specialized training can enhance employability and salary potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: The demand for culinary professionals and the cost of living in Athens influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Cook in Athens
Starting a career as a Cook in Athens involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Pursue Culinary Education: The Culinary Arts Program at Athens Technical College offers hands-on training essential for developing professional cooking skills.
- Take Professional Cooking Classes: Programs such as the Professional Cooking Classes at The National provide advanced culinary techniques and methods taught by experienced chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is vital for compliance and safety in food handling.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation credential validates culinary expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, starting from entry-level positions, helps build necessary skills and understanding of the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Athens
Several notable employers actively seek qualified Cooks in Athens, including:
- First Watch
- Encompass Health
- Piedmont Healthcare
Establishments That Cooks in Athens Work At
Cooks in Athens typically find employment in various types of establishments.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often offer entry-level opportunities with moderate pay but potential for growth.
- Full-Service Restaurants and Hotels: These may provide higher wages, benefits, and more diverse cooking responsibilities.
- Healthcare Facilities and Cafeterias: Employ Cooks to prepare nutritious meals, often with steady work hours and consistent pay.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Provide opportunities for creative cooking with variable pay depending on event size.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary and work environment for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Cooks
If you are considering similar career paths related to cooking, here are some related roles worth exploring.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook, offering different pathways in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Athens
Cooks in Athens should stay informed about labor laws and taxation to ensure compliance and good working conditions.
- Details on federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Georgia Department of Labor provides resources for state-specific employment regulations and workforce development.
- Local laws and government services are accessible via the Athens-Clarke County official website.