Cook Salary in Colorado Springs, CO
Cooks in Colorado Springs, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.88 per hour, which translates to about $715.20 per week, $3,099.20 per month, and $37,190.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Colorado Springs is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Colorado Springs, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Colorado Springs varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. The following table shows approximate wages for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,559.47 | $30,708.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.88 | $715.20 | $3,099.20 | $37,190.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.92 | $956.80 | $4,141.33 | $49,753.60 |
Do Cooks in Colorado Springs Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mostly consists of wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Colorado Springs vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, translating to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Colorado Springs earn slightly more, with an average of $17.88 per hour and $37,190.40 annually.
This reflects the regional cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Colorado Springs for Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Northgate: $19.00 per hour
These areas might provide options for Cooks seeking slightly higher pay within proximity to Colorado Springs.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Colorado Springs?
A variety of factors affect the salary of a Cook in Colorado Springs:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those proficient in specialized cooking techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies typically pay better than fast food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include higher pay or bonuses.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education and certifications can increase earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: The regional demand for culinary staff drives wages upwards in competitive areas.
How To Become a Cook in Colorado Springs
To become a Cook in Colorado Springs, one can follow these key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Engage in programs like Culinary ProStart 1 & 2 offered by Colorado Springs School District 11, which includes advanced chef preparation and internships.
- Enroll in Hospitality and Tourism Courses: Also available through the same district, featuring cooperative internships at local hotels.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Achieve certifications such as ServSafe Certification to meet industry standards for food and beverage safety.
- Earn Professional Credentials: Consider certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation as an entry-level mark of professionalism.
- Gain Experience: Start working in kitchens and progressively develop skills in food prep, cooking methods, and kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Colorado Springs
Some key employers looking for skilled Cooks in Colorado Springs include:
- CommonSpirit Health
- Cedar Springs Hospital
- The GEO Group, Inc.
- Native Resource Development Company, Inc.
- Urban Steam
Establishments That Cooks in Colorado Springs Work At
Cooks in Colorado Springs often find roles in a variety of culinary establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer moderate pay and are often entry points for cooks to gain experience.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Fast-paced environments with competitive wages but usually limited tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher pay potential due to premium service expectations and larger scale operations.
- Catering and Event Services: May offer variable pay depending on event type and size.
- Hospitality and Healthcare Facilities: Stable employment and steady earnings.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary, benefits, and career advancement opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Colorado Springs for Cooks
If you are considering related career options, here are some positions similar to Cook:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager positions, which each entail culinary skills and management responsibilities with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Colorado Springs
Cooks should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure fair work conditions and proper compliance.
- For federal labor laws and information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado-specific employment regulations can be found at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website.
- The City of Colorado Springs official website provides local ordinances and worker resources.