Cook Salary in Compton, CA
Cooks in Compton, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.00 per hour, which translates to about $800.00 per week, $3,466.67 per month, and $41,600.00 per year.
The employment outlook for Cooks in Compton is showing positive growth at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Compton, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Compton can vary depending on experience level and specific employer, but here is a breakdown by experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,806.67 | $45,760.00 |
Do Cooks in Compton Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes and not customer-facing. Their income is mainly derived from their wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Compton, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $16.00, which equates to roughly $33,280.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Compton earn a higher average hourly wage of $20.00 and an annual salary of $41,600.00. This reflects the local cost of living and culinary demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Compton for Cooks
Nearby areas and their average hourly wages for Cooks include:
- Downtown Compton: $21.00 per hour
- East Compton: $20.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Compton can offer slightly better pay compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Compton?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Compton:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks and those proficient in various cooking techniques often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty dining venues typically pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working late or weekend shifts might come with differential pay.
- Local Economic Factors: The demand for culinary professionals and the cost of living in Compton also influence salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Compton
Starting a career as a Cook in Compton involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Education: Programs like the Compton High School Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills beneficial for entry-level positions.
- Pursue Formal Culinary Training: Nearby facilities such as the Los Angeles Trade–Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training accredited by the American Culinary Federation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is commonly required by employers to ensure knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Certifications like Certified Culinarian (CC) can validate skills and improve job prospects.
- Gain Experience: Working in kitchens as a prep cook or assistant helps build skills and industry contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Compton
Some of the prominent employers seeking Cooks in Compton include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- McDonald's
- El Pollo Loco
- IHOP
- Wingstop
Establishments That Cooks in Compton Work At
Cooks in Compton are employed across a variety of dining establishments, each with distinct salary implications:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These provide steady work but usually lower wages compared to other food service sectors.
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate salaries with opportunities for advancement as skills improve.
- Family Style and Buffet Restaurants: These places often require versatility, sometimes offering better pay for experienced Cooks.
- Upscale Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Cooks here may earn higher wages due to the complexity and quality standards of the cuisine.
The specific type of establishment can significantly affect a Cook’s overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Compton for Cooks
If you're considering careers related to cooking, here are some similar roles you might explore.
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef positions, which involve related culinary skills and can offer various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Compton
Cooks must be aware of labor regulations and tax obligations affecting their employment in Compton.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace requirements can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.