Cook Salary in Evansville, IN
Cooks in Evansville, IN, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Evansville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Evansville, IN?
The salary of a Cook in Evansville varies by experience, skill level, and employer type. Here’s a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Cooks in Evansville Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Evansville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Evansville earn slightly less per hour at $13.90 but have competitive yearly earnings at around $28,912. Variations like this are often due to local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evansville for Cooks
Nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Cooks, making them attractive for those seeking higher wages.
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.60 per hour
These neighborhoods may offer better compensation due to their diverse dining establishments and demand for culinary staff.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Evansville?
Several factors can influence how much a Cook earns in Evansville:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Cooks typically command higher wages due to refined skills and efficiency.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Knowledge of specific cuisines or advanced cooking techniques can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend work may include shift differentials.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger hotel chains or catering companies may provide higher salaries and benefits.
How To Become a Cook in Evansville
To start a career as a Cook in Evansville, consider these steps:
- Formal Education: Enroll in culinary programs like Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on cooking training and kitchen management skills.
- Hospitality Management: The University of Southern Indiana Hospitality Management Program offers foundation courses that prepare students for careers in culinary arts with business insights.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification for food safety knowledge and the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate competence.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or internships provide practical experience essential for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Evansville
Several well-known employers hire Cooks regularly in Evansville:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Evansville Work At
Cooks in Evansville typically find employment at various types of food establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: These provide steady work but usually offer lower wages.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay better wages and opportunities for tips for front-of-house staff but cooks usually rely on base pay.
- Fine Dining: Higher pay due to the skill level and precision required in food preparation.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These may offer benefits and consistent hours with competitive pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary and career growth opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evansville for Cooks
If you're considering careers related to being a Cook, these roles are worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Chef, each involving different culinary responsibilities and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Evansville
Cooks should be familiar with labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor for nationwide labor laws and standards.
- Visit the Indiana state website for state-specific employment law resources and labor requirements.
- For local regulations, the City of Evansville official website offers pertinent information and resources.