Cook Salary in Boise, ID
Cooks in Boise, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $17.23 per hour, which translates to about $689.20 per week, $2,986.53 per month, and $35,838.40 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Boise is improving, with a positive growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Cook in Boise varies by experience level and other factors. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different stages of a Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.60 | $464.00 | $2,006.67 | $24,128.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.23 | $689.20 | $2,986.53 | $35,838.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.60 | $1,024.00 | $4,426.67 | $53,248.00 |
Do Cooks in Boise Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is performed in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes from hourly wages or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.95 per hour, which equals approximately $33,176 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in Boise earn a bit more, with an average hourly wage of $17.23 and an annual salary about $35,838. This reflects slightly higher pay than the national average due to regional demand and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer varying pay rates for Cooks. Notably:
- Downtown Boise: $18.50 per hour
- North End: $18.00 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Boise can generally expect to earn higher wages than in other nearby areas, reflecting the diverse culinary scene and demand in the city center.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Boise?
Several factors can influence how much a Cook earns in Boise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants usually pay more than fast food or casual dining establishments.
- Culinary Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe or other food safety credentials can enhance salary potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Working nights or weekends might include shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Market conditions and regional demand impact wages significantly.
How To Become a Cook in Boise
To pursue a career as a Cook in Boise, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Boise State University Culinary Arts Program and the College of Western Idaho Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training and hands-on skills development.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe and the Idaho Food Handler's Permit are important for safe food preparation and required by many employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions, apprenticeships, or internships help build foundational skills and workplace familiarity.
- Develop Culinary Skills: Specializing in particular cuisines or cooking techniques can improve job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Boise
Prominent organizations in Boise hiring Cooks include:
- McDonald's
- Sonic Drive-In
- Saint Alphonsus Health System
- Warehouse Food Hall
- Boise Consumer Cooperative Inc
Establishments That Cooks in Boise Work At
Cooks in Boise work across a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Fast Food: Usually offer entry-level opportunities with lower pay but flexible hours.
- Casual Dining: Provide steady hours and moderate pay with some potential for advancement.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Generally offer the highest wages, especially for experienced or specialized Cooks.
- Institutional Settings: Like hospitals and cafeterias, these may provide consistent work and benefits but possibly lower pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Cook's earning potential and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Cooks
For those interested in careers related to being a Cook, many roles share similar skills and responsibilities.
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Head Chef, positions that often share overlapping duties and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Boise
Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed on the Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific guidance, the Idaho Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources.
- The official City of Boise website offers information on local regulations and services.