Cook Salary in Detroit, MI
Cooks in Detroit, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.62 per hour, which translates to about $704.80 per week, $3,054.13 per month, and $36,649.60 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Detroit is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary sector within the city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Detroit, MI?
The salary of a Cook in Detroit varies depending on experience and employer, but the following provides a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.48 | $499.20 | $2,165.60 | $25,990.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.62 | $704.80 | $3,054.13 | $36,649.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,680.00 | $56,160.00 |
Do Cooks in Detroit Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work happens mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation is generally solely based on hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Detroit vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.02 per hour, translating to approximately $33,321.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Detroit earn a bit more, at about $17.62 per hour and $36,649.60 annually, reflecting local demand and possibly the industry's growth in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Detroit for Cooks
Nearby cities offer variable pay rates for Cooks, including:
- Kentwood: $18.25 per hour
- Sterling Heights: $17.62 per hour
These rates suggest opportunities for Cooks to potentially earn higher salaries by commuting to nearby areas.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Detroit?
The salary of a Cook in Detroit is influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skills: Cooks with more years of experience and advanced culinary skills generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels often provides better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and food safety certifications can increase employability and salary potential.
- Shift Timing and Workload: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may offer shift differentials, improving overall earnings.
- Local Market Conditions: Demand for quality cooks in Detroit affects salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Detroit
Becoming a Cook in Detroit typically involves several steps to build necessary skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Schoolcraft College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for various roles in the culinary industry.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Cooks start by working in entry-level kitchen positions to develop their skills on the job.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: For example, the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and focuses on essential food safety practices.
- Pursue Further Credentials: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance career prospects.
- Networking and Job Searching: Connecting with local restaurants and culinary professionals in Detroit aids in discovering job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Detroit
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Cooks in Detroit include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Detroit Work At
Cooks in Detroit commonly work in a variety of establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer entry-level opportunities with steady hours but generally lower pay.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide more diverse cooking experience and better wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually pay higher salaries and may offer benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Demand higher culinary skills and offer the best earning potential.
The salary of a Cook can vary significantly depending on the establishment's prestige, size, and culinary focus.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Detroit for Cooks
If you are exploring careers similar to a Cook, here are some related roles worth considering:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef, all of which share many culinary skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Detroit
As a Cook working in Detroit, it is important to be aware of labor laws and tax regulations affecting your employment:
- For detailed information on federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Michigan's official website offers resources on state labor laws, employment rights, and workforce development programs.