Cook Salary in Gulfport, MS
Cooks in Gulfport, MS, in 2026, earn approximately $14.11 per hour, which translates to about $564.40 per week, $2,445.73 per month, and $29,348.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Gulfport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising opportunities and expanding employment prospects in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Gulfport, MS?
The salary for a Cook in Gulfport varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.38 | $455.20 | $1,968.53 | $23,642.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.85 | $594.00 | $2,566.00 | $30,888.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.62 | $984.80 | $4,256.53 | $51,129.60 |
Do Cooks in Gulfport Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their base wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Gulfport vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which comes to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Gulfport earn somewhat less on an hourly basis at $14.11 per hour, and an annual salary of $29,348.80. This difference can be due to regional economic factors and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gulfport for Cooks
Nearby areas where Cooks tend to earn higher wages include:
- Biloxi: $14.72 per hour
- Madison: $15.50 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate to Madison or Biloxi might find better pay and more opportunities in the cooking profession.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Gulfport?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Gulfport:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and skilled Cooks command higher wages, especially those proficient in specific cuisines or cooking techniques.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or casinos often offers better pay compared to casual dining or fast food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training or food safety certifications can boost salary potential.
- Shift and Hours: Cooks working night or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Regional economic conditions influence wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Gulfport
Starting a successful career as a Cook in Gulfport can be achievable through several steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable hands-on experience and foundational knowledge.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The University of Southern Mississippi Hospitality and Tourism Management Program also provides relevant education in food service operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are commonly required and help demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The American Culinary Federation Certification can further validate culinary skills and improve employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Gulfport
Some of the biggest local employers seeking skilled Cooks in Gulfport include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Island View Casino Resort
- Flamingo Landing
Establishments That Cooks in Gulfport Work At
Cooks in Gulfport find work in various types of restaurants and food service settings:
- Casual Dining: These offer stable schedules but generally average wages.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Typically employ entry-level Cooks, often with hourly wages near the lower range.
- Upscale Restaurants and Casinos: Tend to offer higher pay and sometimes include benefits or bonuses.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Provide employment with opportunities for career advancement.
The type of establishment influences not only the work environment but also potential salary levels and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gulfport for Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to that of a Cook, consider related hospitality positions such as:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, roles that involve related culinary skills and responsibilities with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Gulfport
Cooks in Gulfport should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Mississippi Department of Employment Security provides state-specific labor information.
- Local employment resources and regulations are available on the City of Gulfport official website.