Cook Salary in Fontana, CA
Cooks in Fontana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.47 per hour, which translates to about $778.80 per week, $3,374.80 per month, and $40,497.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Fontana is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for opportunities in the culinary and food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Fontana, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Fontana varies by experience, skill, and workplace. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.73 | $709.20 | $3,070.80 | $36,878.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.47 | $778.80 | $3,374.80 | $40,497.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.34 | $853.60 | $3,692.27 | $44,307.20 |
Do Cooks in Fontana Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work takes place in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their income primarily comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Fontana vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.08 per hour, which translates roughly to $33,446.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Fontana earn more, with an average of $19.47 per hour and $40,497.60 annually. This increase may relate to regional living costs and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fontana for Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly pay for Cooks:
- Claremont: $42 per hour
- Lake Arrowhead: $42 per hour
Cooks working in these areas can expect substantially higher wages than those in Fontana.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Fontana?
The salary of a Cook in Fontana depends on several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services often provides better pay than fast food or casual dining places.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary training and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Scheduling: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials impacting pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional demand and living costs influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Cook in Fontana
Starting a career as a Cook in Fontana typically involves:
- Completing Culinary Training Programs: Enrolling in local programs such as the Chaffey College Culinary Arts Program in Rancho Cucamonga or the San Bernardino Valley College Culinary Arts Program helps develop essential cooking techniques and kitchen management skills.
- Obtaining Required Food Handler Certifications: Food Handler Certification, such as ServSafe, is mandatory in California to comply with food safety laws.
- Advancing with American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certifications: These certifications validate culinary expertise and professionalism.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Working in kitchens at various establishments helps build real-world skills and job readiness.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Fontana
Several prominent local employers regularly hire Cooks, including:
- WaBa Grill
- El Pollo Loco
- The Original Graziano's Pizza
Establishments That Cooks in Fontana Work At
Cooks in Fontana are employed in a variety of settings:
- Fast Casual and Casual Restaurants: These establishments often hire Cooks for daily meal preparation, usually with moderate wages.
- Full-Service Restaurants and Hotels: These locations may offer better pay and benefits for Cooks due to the complexity and quality expectations of the cuisine.
- Catering Companies and Institutional Kitchens: Here, Cooks may have varied responsibilities and opportunities to advance their skills.
The type of establishment directly affects salary levels and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fontana for Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Cook, consider these similar careers that require related skills:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef positions, which offer varied responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Fontana
Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax information to protect their rights and fulfill obligations.
- California’s official labor laws can be accessed via the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Employment services and state tax information are available from the California Employment Development Department.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.