Cook Salary in Goodyear, AZ
Cooks in Goodyear, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.42 per hour, which translates to about $696.80 per week, $3,019.47 per month, and $36,233.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Goodyear is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Goodyear, AZ?
The salary of a Cook in Goodyear varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview across different levels of expertise.
| 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) | $17.42 | $696.80 | $3,018.93 | $36,233.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Cooks in Goodyear Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their compensation is typically based on wages rather than tips.
Cook Salary in Goodyear vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $15.14 per hour, which amounts to roughly $31,491.20 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Cooks in Goodyear earn a higher hourly wage of $17.42 and a yearly salary of $36,233.60, reflecting a stronger pay scale in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Goodyear for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different salary rates for Cooks:
- Estrella Mountain Ranch: $18.00 per hour
- Central Goodyear: $17.50 per hour
These neighboring communities provide competitive wages for culinary professionals looking for employment near Goodyear.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Goodyear?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in this area:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more experience or specialized skills in certain cuisines typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay than fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications: Holding relevant culinary certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing overall earnings.
- Local Economy: Economic conditions and living costs in Goodyear influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Cook in Goodyear
Here are key steps to start a career as a Cook in Goodyear:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs like the Estrella Mountain Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers hands-on experience in modern kitchens.
- Enroll in Specialized Institutes: The Arizona Culinary Institute provides intensive education focusing on classic techniques and modern trends.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are highly valued for ensuring knowledge of food safety practices.
- Professional Culinary Credentials: Achieving credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can improve employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Goodyear
Major employers in Goodyear seeking Cooks include:
- Denny's
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Old Chicago
Establishments That Cooks in Goodyear Work At
Cooks commonly work in a variety of establishments such as casual dining, fast casual, and sit-down restaurants.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary. High-end restaurants often pay more due to the complexity of dishes and customer expectations, while fast casual places may offer more steady but typically lower wages.
Working in hotels or large catering services can also increase pay due to the volume and scope of culinary operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Goodyear for Cooks
If you're interested in related careers within hospitality and culinary fields, here are a few options to consider:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager positions, which offer various levels of responsibility and salary ranges within the kitchen.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Goodyear
Cooks in Goodyear should be informed about applicable state and federal labor laws and tax regulations.
- Information on Arizona’s state labor laws and worker rights can be found at the official Arizona government website.
- For federal labor laws, including wages and workplace safety, the U.S. Department of Labor's website provides comprehensive resources.