Cook Salary in Burbank, CA
Cooks in Burbank, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Burbank is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local culinary sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Burbank, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Burbank can vary depending on experience and employer, but the table below shows estimated earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Burbank Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchen operations. Their earnings come primarily from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Burbank vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Burbank earn $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually, reflecting higher wages likely influenced by local living costs and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burbank for Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following higher pay rates for Cook positions:
- Warner Bros. Studio Area: $47.86 per hour
- Castaway Restaurant Area: $43.75 per hour
These areas may provide significantly higher earning potential due to specialized culinary demands or upscale dining environments.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Burbank?
Several factors influence a Cook's salary level in Burbank:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with advanced culinary skills typically command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or specialized kitchens often offers better salaries than casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Possessing formal culinary education or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Hours and Shifts: Evening or holiday shifts sometimes include differential pay, increasing overall income.
- Local Market Demand: Burbank's culinary industry trends affect salary competitiveness.
How To Become a Cook in Burbank
To pursue a Cook career in Burbank, aspiring individuals can take several steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Consider programs like the Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Institute of Culinary Education Los Angeles Campus for comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure knowledge of safe food handling.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation is a recognized professional certification that can boost employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions such as prep cook or kitchen assistant provide valuable on-the-job learning.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Burbank
Some notable employers actively hiring Cooks in Burbank include:
- Warner Bros. Discovery
- Castaway
- Morton's The Steakhouse
Establishments That Cooks in Burbank Work At
Cooks in Burbank find employment in a variety of venues, including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, fine dining establishments, and catering companies.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary levels, with upscale or specialized restaurants generally offering higher pay compared to fast casual or quick-service venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burbank for Cooks
If you’re interested in roles related to Cook, consider these similar careers that require similar skills and offer different salary ranges.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Burbank
Cooks should be aware of federal and state labor laws as well as local regulations that affect their employment rights and tax responsibilities.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California's labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- Local workforce and employment information can be found on the City of Burbank official website.