Cook Salary in Hampton, VA
Cooks in Hampton, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.64 per hour, which translates to about $625.60 per week, $2,710.93 per month, and $32,531.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Hampton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary of a Cook in Hampton, VA can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a general breakdown of earnings at different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.20 | $528.00 | $2,288.00 | $27,456.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.64 | $625.60 | $2,710.93 | $32,531.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.52 | $740.80 | $3,204.53 | $38,489.60 |
Do Cooks in Hampton, VA Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their earnings are primarily based on hourly wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Hampton, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $18 per hour, which totals approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Hampton earn less, with an hourly rate of about $15.64 and an annual salary around $32,531.20. This difference could be influenced by factors like local cost of living and the demand for culinary staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Cooks
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Cooks:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Phoebus: $17.00 per hour
These nearby locations may provide better opportunities or higher wages for experienced Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Hampton, VA?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Cook in Hampton, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks who have mastered diverse cooking techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or specialized eateries generally offers better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant culinary certifications can boost salary prospects.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials and extra pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Demand for culinary professionals and living costs in Hampton affect overall wages.
How To Become a Cook in Hampton, VA
To start a career as a Cook in Hampton, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Thomas Nelson Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Advance Education: Consider attending the Culinary Institute of Virginia for advanced culinary education with hands-on experience.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification validate your knowledge of food safety practices.
- Professional Recognition: Earning a Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate professional competency and enhance job opportunities.
- Gain Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles or internships can build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Hampton, VA
Some of the major employers seeking skilled Cooks in Hampton include:
- US Department of Veterans Affairs
- First Watch
- Raising Cane's
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Applebee's
Establishments That Cooks in Hampton, VA Work At
Cooks usually work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide moderate salaries and steady hours.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have fast-paced environments with hourly wages typically on the lower end.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay and benefits due to the scale and clientele.
- Hospitality and Healthcare Facilities: Such as those operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, generally offering more stable employment with benefits.
The type of establishment influences salary ranges, with fine dining and hotel kitchens typically paying more than fast food or smaller diners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton, VA for Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to cooking, consider exploring several other hospitality positions which share similar skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Hampton, VA
Cooks in Hampton should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and informed employment.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- State-specific information can be found at the Official Virginia state website.
- Local employment standards and resources are available on the Official City of Hampton website.