Cook Salary in Everett, WA
Cooks in Everett, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.04 per hour, which translates to about $801.60 per week, $3,473.60 per month, and $41,683.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Everett is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and increasing opportunities in the culinary field throughout the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Everett, WA?
The salary of a Cook in Everett varies with experience and skill, but here's a breakdown of earnings by experience level to give you an overview.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.81 | $672.40 | $2,912.27 | $34,988.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.04 | $801.60 | $3,473.60 | $41,683.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.89 | $955.60 | $4,126.13 | $49,711.20 |
Do Cooks in Everett Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus mainly on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily from their base salary or wages.
Cook Salary in Everett vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of around $16.03 per hour, which equals approximately $33,342.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Everett earn higher wages with about $20.04 per hour and $41,683.20 annually. This differential is influenced by the local economy and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Everett for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Everett: $21.50 per hour
- Silver Lake: $22.00 per hour
Cooks working in Silver Lake tend to earn the highest pay among the nearby neighborhoods, indicating shifting opportunities across the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Everett?
Experience plays a crucial role: Cooks with several years in the kitchen tend to command higher wages due to refined skills and efficiency.
The skills and specialties a Cook possesses, such as expertise in specific cuisines or advanced techniques, can significantly affect their earning potential.
The type of establishment is also a major factor. Working in fine dining or large institutions usually pays more than fast food or casual environments.
Certifications and training, particularly in food safety, also contribute to better salary prospects.
Lastly, local market demand and cost of living in Everett impact salary levels, generally pushing wages higher with growing culinary industry competition.
How To Become a Cook in Everett
Starting a career as a Cook in Everett involves several useful steps for those seeking to enter this profession.
Enrolling in formal culinary education programs such as the Everett Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, can be highly beneficial.
High school students interested in cooking might explore foundational culinary education through the Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center Culinary Arts Program.
Certifications are important, including the mandatory Washington State Food Worker Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification for food safety, which many employers require.
Practical experience working under experienced chefs and continuous learning improve skills and increase job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Everett
The following prominent employers in Everett regularly seek skilled Cooks:
- Providence Regional Medical Center
- Everett Public Schools
- Compass Group
Establishments That Cooks in Everett Work At
Cooks in Everett find employment opportunities in a variety of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, cafeterias, and institutional kitchens.
Each type of establishment influences pay scale: casual dining places might offer steadier wages, while fine dining or institutional kitchens like hospitals usually pay higher due to the complexity and volume of work.
Fast casual and quick-service restaurants might have lower wages, but can provide quick entry-level opportunities for Cooks building their careers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Everett for Cooks
If you are exploring occupational alternatives related to Cooking, consider these similar roles for diverse career paths:
These positions include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which involve culinary skills related to Cooking but with different responsibilities and salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Everett
Cooks in Everett should stay informed about labor laws and taxation applicable in Washington State to understand their rights and obligations.
- For employment standards including wages and workplace regulations, visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
- Information on workplace safety, wage claims, and workers’ compensation can be found at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.