Cook Salary in High Point, NC
Cooks in High Point, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in High Point is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the local culinary and hospitality scene.
How Much Does a Cook Make in High Point, NC?
The salary of a Cook in High Point varies based on experience and skill level. Here is the average pay categorized by experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in High Point Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen, whereas servers and bartenders are the primary recipients of customer tips.
Cook Salary in High Point vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn about $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in High Point make slightly less hourly at $14.00 per hour and $29,120.00 annually. This modest difference reflects regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near High Point for Cooks
In nearby areas, Cook salaries show some variation:
- Downtown High Point: $15.50 per hour
- Emerywood: $16.00 per hour
Cooks working in Emerywood can expect the highest pay among these locations, followed closely by Downtown High Point.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in High Point?
Several key factors can affect a Cook's salary in High Point:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer higher wages compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Completion of relevant certifications, such as the ServSafe Certification or American Culinary Federation Certification, can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts might come with differential pay.
- Local Labor Market: Demand for culinary staff in High Point’s growing hospitality sector impacts salaries.
How To Become a Cook in High Point
Starting a career as a Cook in High Point involves the following steps:
- Join Culinary Education Programs: Enroll in local programs like the Culinary Arts Club at High Point University, which provides hands-on cooking experience.
- Consider Hospitality Management Programs: The Hospitality Management Program at High Point University also offers valuable knowledge about food service operations and guest experiences.
- Earn Certifications: Acquiring the ServSafe Certification ensures understanding of food safety regulations, and the American Culinary Federation Certification validates culinary skills to employers.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in local restaurants help build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in High Point
Businesses frequently hiring Cooks in High Point include:
- Aramark
- Atrium Health
- AVI Foodsystems, Inc.
- Harris Teeter
- Brookdale Senior Living
Establishments That Cooks in High Point Work At
Cooks in High Point find employment across diverse types of establishments, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Offer steady work and moderate salaries.
- Fast casual eateries: These may provide faster-paced work environments with varying pay.
- Hotels and resorts: Often have higher pay scales and opportunities for advancement.
- Senior living facilities: Require cooks to prepare varied diets and might offer competitive pay.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with higher-end and larger operations generally paying more than smaller, fast casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in High Point for Cooks
If you are considering related roles, here are similar positions you may want to explore:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, which involve similar culinary responsibilities and career progression.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in High Point
Understanding the labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Cooks in High Point to maintain proper employment conditions and compliance.
- For state labor laws and employment resources, visit the North Carolina official website.
- For federal labor regulations, you can refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.