Cook Salary in Boulder, CO
Cooks in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $21.83 per hour, which translates to about $873.20 per week, $3,783.87 per month, and $45,406.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market outlook and an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Boulder varies with experience, skillset, and employer type. Below is an overview of typical salaries across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.70 | $708.00 | $3,058.00 | $36,816.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.83 | $873.20 | $3,783.87 | $45,406.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.93 | $1,077.20 | $4,667.47 | $56,014.40 |
Do Cooks in Boulder Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come solely from their salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour and approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Boulder earn more, with a median wage of about $21.83 per hour and $45,406.40 annually. This difference can be attributed to local cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Boulder.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varying pay rates for Cooks:
- University Hill: $22.50 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $23.00 per hour
Those working around Pearl Street Mall tend to earn the highest hourly rate, closely followed by University Hill, both competitive compared to Boulder city averages.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Boulder?
Experience and Skillset play a big role; seasoned Cooks with a wide range of culinary abilities tend to earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or specialty restaurants often results in higher salaries compared to fast casual or casual dining venues.
Shift Hours and Availability: Night shifts or weekend availability can sometimes influence pay rates through shift differentials.
Local Market Demand: As Boulder’s culinary scene grows, the demand for skilled Cooks can drive salaries upward.
Certifications and Education: Possessing food safety or culinary certifications can enhance salary potential and job prospects.
How To Become a Cook in Boulder
Becoming a Cook in Boulder involves several important steps to gain skills and improve employability.
- Enrolling in a Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts offers comprehensive hands-on training in techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning.
- The Professional Cooking Program at Boulder Culinary School focuses on advanced cooking methods, food safety, and international cuisines designed for aspiring chefs.
- Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or similar national food safety credentials is crucial and frequently required by employers.
- Achieving the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance credibility and employment opportunities.
- Building practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Boulder
Boulder’s vibrant dining scene is home to many notable employers frequently looking for skilled Cooks, including:
- The Kitchen Restaurant Group
- Oak at 14th
- Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
- Birdcall
- Snooze an AM Eatery
Establishments That Cooks in Boulder Work At
Cooks are employed across a variety of establishments, each impacting salary levels differently.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have moderate wages but may offer high turnover and opportunities for advancement.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Typically offer higher pay for Cooks with refined skills and specialized training.
- Cafés and Bistros: May offer flexible hours but moderate compensation.
- Catering and Event Services: Pay varies based on the scale and prestige of the operation.
The workplace environment and cuisine type can significantly affect earnings and career growth for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Cooks
If you’re considering related opportunities beyond cooking, here are a few similar careers that might interest you:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef positions, which share culinary skills and career pathways with the Cook role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Boulder
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Cooks working in Boulder.
- For federal regulations, wages, and employment rights visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado-specific labor laws, unemployment benefits, and workforce resources are available at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
- Local city ordinances, business licenses, and community support programs can be explored on the City of Boulder official website.