Cook Salary in Atlanta, GA
Cooks in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.55 per hour, which translates to about $622.00 per week, $2,695.33 per month, and $32,344.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Cook in Atlanta can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Below is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.61 | $424.40 | $1,841.73 | $22,102.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.55 | $622.00 | $2,695.33 | $32,344.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.79 | $911.60 | $3,943.73 | $47,363.20 |
Do Cooks in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips because their work is mainly in the kitchen, behind the scenes. Their income mostly depends on their wages or salary, without additional tip earnings.
Cook Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $15.55 per hour, translating to approximately $32,344 per year.
Comparing this, Cooks in Atlanta earn nearly the same hourly and annual wages as the national average. This shows that Atlanta's culinary salary market aligns well with overall U.S. trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Cooks
Around the Atlanta area, Cook salaries vary slightly depending on the location:
- Cumming: $15.61 per hour
- Atlanta: $15.55 per hour
Those commuting to or working in Cumming may find marginally higher pay than in Atlanta, though both areas offer competitive wages for Cooks.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several factors play an important role in determining a Cook's salary in Atlanta:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with expanded culinary skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels can yield better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or a Culinary Arts diploma can increase employability and salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Type: Night, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer premium pay rates.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: The Atlanta area's economic conditions affect wages offered to Cooks.
How To Become a Cook in Atlanta
Starting a career as a Cook in Atlanta involves several steps to increase your job prospects and earning potential:
- Formal Culinary Programs: You can enroll in online culinary programs like those at the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts to build strong foundational and advanced cooking skills.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining a ServSafe Certification is essential as it demonstrates knowledge of food safety standards.
- Culinary Certifications: Consider earning credentials such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation to validate your skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as a kitchen assistant or prep cook to gain hands-on knowledge in fast-paced kitchens.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Atlanta
Several major employers frequently hire Cooks in Atlanta, including:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A Restaurants
- Chipotle
Establishments That Cooks in Atlanta Work At
Cooks in Atlanta typically work across a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Chains: High-volume production kitchens with standardized menus. Salaries may be moderate but offer stable hours.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: More variety in menus, often paying slightly higher wages than fast food.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations where skilled Cooks often receive higher pay and benefits.
- Private Catering and Banquet Services: These can sometimes offer premium wages due to event-based work.
The type of establishment influences both pay rates and career advancement opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Cooks
If you are interested in similar career paths related to cooking, you might consider the following roles:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, positions requiring related culinary expertise and often offering varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Atlanta
Cooks in Atlanta need to be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment conditions and earnings.
- For information on Georgia-specific employment laws and resources, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.
- Federal labor standards, including wage and hour laws, can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.