Cook Salary in Durham, NC
Cooks in Durham, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $15.45 per hour, which translates to about $618.00 per week, $2,678.00 per month, and $32,136.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for this essential role in the foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Cook in Durham varies based on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.67 | $386.80 | $1,672.73 | $20,073.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.45 | $618.00 | $2,678.00 | $32,136.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.70 | $988.00 | $4,259.33 | $51,376.00 |
Do Cooks in Durham Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Durham, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.45 per hour, translating to about $32,136 per year.
Cooks in Durham earn roughly the same as the national average for hourly and yearly pay. This suggests that the local market is competitive with national pay standards for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Cooks:
- Pinehurst: $17.30 per hour
- Charlotte: $15.58 per hour
Cooks who commute to Pinehurst may find higher pay compared to Durham, while Charlotte's wages are slightly above Durham’s average.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors affect a Cook’s salary in Durham, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and skilled Cooks earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels may receive better pay than those in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary courses or certifications can boost earnings potential.
- Shift and Schedule: Night shifts or weekends may come with higher pay due to demand.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Durham’s living costs and economic climate influence salary standards.
How To Become a Cook in Durham
To establish a career as a Cook in Durham, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in culinary skills preparing students for positions like Cook.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Participate in practical training through programs like The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham Culinary Arts Program, which emphasizes both theory and kitchen practice.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification validate knowledge of essential food safety practices and are often required by employers.
- Secure Necessary Permits: For roles involving alcoholic beverage preparation or service, obtaining the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission (ABC) Permit may be necessary.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Durham
Several companies frequently hire Cooks in Durham, including:
- Marriott International
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Cooks in Durham Work At
Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments across Durham, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer stable employment with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: May pay slightly less but provide opportunities for entry-level positions and advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer higher pay and benefits to experienced Cooks.
- Catering Companies: Can provide diverse work experiences with the possibility of premium pay for special events.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally offering higher wages compared to fast casual or quick service restaurants.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Cooks
If you’re interested in careers similar to Cook, consider exploring related roles with overlapping skills and salary potentials.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook positions, all of which require culinary skills and offer different salary ranges depending on experience and the employer.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Durham
Cooks in Durham should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to safeguard their rights and ensure compliance.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details about employment standards specific to North Carolina are available on the North Carolina government website.