Cook Salary in Burlington, VT
Cooks in Burlington, VT, in 2025, earn approximately $19.76 per hour, which translates to about $790.40 per week, $3,425.07 per month, and $41,100.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Burlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting healthy prospects for those entering or advancing in this culinary field annually.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Burlington, VT?
The earnings of a Cook in Burlington depend largely on experience and skill level, but here we provide a breakdown from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.01 | $560.40 | $2,425.40 | $29,100.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.76 | $790.40 | $3,425.07 | $41,100.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.02 | $1,480.80 | $6,404.27 | $76,329.60 |
Do Cooks in Burlington Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is generally behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their compensation primarily comes from their salary or wages without added gratuities.
Cook Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn about $16.04 per hour, which amounts to approximately $33,363.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Burlington enjoy higher pay rates at about $19.76 per hour and $41,100.80 annually, reflecting regional demand and living cost differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Cooks:
- South Burlington: $21.19 per hour
- Colchester: $20.73 per hour
These areas provide slightly higher pay than Burlington, making them attractive for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Burlington?
Several factors can influence how much a Cook earns in Burlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills or specialization command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants or hotels tends to pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Holding formal culinary certifications can increase salary potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may yield shift differentials and overtime pay.
- Local Market Demand: Regional demand for quality culinary staff impacts wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Burlington
To pursue a career as a Cook in Burlington, consider these pathways:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like those at the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, VT offer hands-on experience and industry connections.
- Community College Courses: Nearby institutions such as the Community College of Vermont provide foundational culinary arts courses beneficial for aspiring Cooks.
- Certifications: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Certification and Certified Culinarian (CC) can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Burlington
The following employers are known for hiring skilled Cooks in the Burlington area:
- University of Vermont Medical Center
- The Farmhouse Group
- Trattoria Delia
Establishments That Cooks in Burlington Work At
Cooks typically find employment across a variety of establishments including casual and fast-casual restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and healthcare food services.
The type of establishment often affects salary. For example, hotel kitchens and upscale restaurants tend to offer higher wages compared to fast-casual or quick service outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Cooks
If you are interested in similar roles connected to cooking, you might consider the following related positions which share culinary skills and experience requirements:
These are Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef, respectively, offering related culinary career paths with varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Burlington
Understanding relevant labor laws and tax guidelines is important for Cooks working in Burlington:
- For federal labor laws and employment information visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor regulations, the Vermont Department of Labor website provides comprehensive guidance.