Cook Salary in Cleveland, OH
Cooks in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which amounts to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job outlook for Cooks in Cleveland is positive with a growth rate of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled kitchen professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary for a Cook in Cleveland varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different stages of a Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Cooks in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than interacting directly with customers. Their earnings mostly come from their base wage.
Cook Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, amounting to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Cleveland earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary around $28,912. Differences are often influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Cooks
The salary for Cooks can vary significantly within areas surrounding Cleveland:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- University Circle: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working near University Circle tend to enjoy some of the highest pay rates in the region, reflecting the area's upscale dining and hospitality settings.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several important factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience: More experienced Cooks command higher wages due to proven skills and efficiency.
- Skill Level: Specialized cooking techniques or knowledge of particular cuisines can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay more compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might offer premium pay rates.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications enhance employability and salary prospects.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic health of Cleveland and its food industry affects salary offerings.
How To Become a Cook in Cleveland
Becoming a Cook in Cleveland can be achieved through several pathways:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Cuyahoga Community College provide comprehensive culinary skills and kitchen management education.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at Cleveland State University prepares individuals for broader roles in food and hospitality industries.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to meet health and safety requirements.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification demonstrating culinary competency.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as kitchen assistants or prep cooks helps build foundational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Cleveland
Many restaurants and food service businesses in Cleveland actively recruit Cook positions, including well-known chains and local favorites such as:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Cleveland Work At
Cooks in Cleveland typically find employment in various types of food-service establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These provide quick service with standardized menus and generally offer entry-level wages.
- Casual Dining: Restaurants with table service that may pay higher wages compared to fast food.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer higher salaries due to more complex culinary demands and larger volume of guests.
- Catering Companies: Pay may vary based on contract size and event scale.
The establishment type greatly affects salary, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Cooks
For those interested in positions related to Cook, here are some similar career options available in Cleveland:
This includes related roles such as Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Prep Cook, which share similar kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Cleveland
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Cooks working in Cleveland to ensure their rights and compliance with regulations.
- Federal labor laws, wages, and employment regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers resources on employment, training, and labor market information specific to Ohio.
- For local regulations, permits, and business resources, visit the City of Cleveland's official website.