Cook Salary in Evanston, IL
Cooks in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Evanston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Evanston can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Evanston Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically performed in the kitchen and away from direct customer service. Their earnings mainly consist of their base salary or wage.
Cook Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 annually.
Comparatively, Cooks in Evanston earn higher wages at approximately $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually.
This difference likely reflects local cost of living, labor market demand, and regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Cooks
If you are considering employment opportunities near Evanston, here are some high-paying areas:
- Downtown Evanston: $19.50 per hour
- Northwestern University Area: $20.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher wages compared to Evanston overall, likely due to proximity to high-end establishments and institutions.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Evanston?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Evanston:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or institutional cafeterias like universities generally offers better pay than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional pay differentials.
- Certifications: Holding food safety and culinary certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and labor competition in Evanston and nearby areas affect wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Evanston, IL
To become a Cook in Evanston, consider these important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program or the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program, which focus on fundamental cooking skills and industry knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification or becoming a Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation enhance credentials and compliance with health standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions to develop hands-on skills and advance.
- Network and Seek Employment: Connect with local employers and culinary professionals to find job openings and career growth opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Evanston
Several prominent employers in Evanston actively hire skilled Cooks, including:
- Steak N Shake
- Northwestern University Dining Services
- Levy Restaurants
- Sodexo
- Compass Group
Establishments That Cooks in Evanston Work At
Cooks in Evanston typically work in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually offer steady work hours with moderate salary levels.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: May offer less salary but provide fast-paced environments and tips for servers.
- Institutional Food Services: Such as universities and hospitals, which often provide consistent pay and benefits.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often pay higher wages due to service quality expectations and event demands.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence a Cook’s salary and career trajectory.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to Cook, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, which require related culinary skills and can offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Evanston
Cooks in Evanston should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws as well as tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides state-specific employment resources and guidelines.
- The City of Evanston official website offers information on local regulations and worker rights.