Cook Salary in Cheyenne, WY
Cooks in Cheyenne, WY, in 2026, earn approximately $16.68 per hour, which translates to about $667.20 per week, $2,891.20 per month, and $34,694.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Cheyenne is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and a healthy outlook for this role within the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Cheyenne, WY?
The salary of a Cook in Cheyenne varies by experience level and position demands. Below is a breakdown to help understand earning potential across different stages of the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,486.93 | $29,953.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.68 | $667.20 | $2,891.20 | $34,694.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,392.53 | $40,830.40 |
Do Cooks in Cheyenne Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is largely behind the scenes in kitchen operations. Their earnings are usually limited to wages or salary, with tips going primarily to front-of-house staff such as servers and bartenders.
Cook Salary in Cheyenne, WY vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $15.96 per hour or around $33,196.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Cheyenne earn slightly more at approximately $16.68 per hour and $34,694.40 annually. This slight premium may reflect local market conditions and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cheyenne for Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay rates for Cooks include:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- South Greeley: $18.00 per hour
Cooks working in these areas may benefit from increased wages, likely due to demand concentration and economic activity levels in those parts of the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Cheyenne?
Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with several years of experience or specialty skills such as grilling, sautéing, or working in specific cuisines often command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Employment at fine dining restaurants, hotels, or corporate dining facilities typically pays more than fast food or casual dining.
Hours and Shift Differentials: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays can result in pay premiums or overtime.
Certifications and Training: Having certifications in food safety or culinary arts can positively influence earning potential.
How To Become a Cook in Cheyenne
Starting a career as a Cook in Cheyenne involves a variety of practical steps to build necessary skills and credentials.
- Attend Culinary Training Programs: Programs such as the Laramie County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on experience and comprehensive training to prepare for roles in professional kitchens.
- Obtain Food Safety Credentials: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required by employers to ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Work Experience: Many Cooks start in entry-level kitchen roles such as Prep Cook or Dishwasher to learn kitchen operations before advancing.
- Develop Versatility: Learning multiple cooking techniques and cuisines can increase employability and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Cheyenne
Cooks in Cheyenne find opportunities with a range of organizations including:
- Laramie County Community College
- Wyoming Horse Racing LLC
- Local Restaurants
Establishments That Cooks in Cheyenne Work At
Cooks are employed across diverse food service establishments in Cheyenne, including:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Often provide steady hours but may offer lower wages compared to higher-end establishments.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically faster paced with consistent schedules, offering varying salary opportunities.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer higher wages, especially for Cooks able to manage high volume or specialized menus.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary based on customer volume, menu complexity, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cheyenne for Cooks
If you're considering career options similar to Cook, here are a few related roles that share overlapping skills and may offer alternative paths:
These positions include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Commis Chef, respectively, offering variability in responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary profession.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Cheyenne
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax obligations applicable in Wyoming to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor law information.
- For state-specific guidelines, the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services website provides resources on employment and labor laws.