Cook Salary in Honolulu, HI
Cooks in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $20.84 per hour, which translates to about $833.60 per week, $3,612.27 per month, and $43,347.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting healthy job prospects and a growing hospitality sector in the city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Cook in Honolulu varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.84 | $833.60 | $3,612.27 | $43,347.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.47 | $1,098.80 | $4,753.47 | $57,137.60 |
Do Cooks in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their earnings mainly come from their salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which equals about $33,280 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Honolulu earn significantly more with an average hourly wage of $20.84 and an annual salary of $43,347.20.
This higher pay reflects the cost of living in Honolulu and the local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Cooks
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Cooks include:
- Waikiki: $22.00 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $21.50 per hour
Cooks working in Waikiki tend to earn slightly more due to the vibrant tourism and hospitality industry.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several factors influence a Cook’s salary in Honolulu, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks command higher wages due to their refined skills and knowledge.
- Skills and Specializations: Specialized skills like sushi preparation or expertise in particular cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and cruise lines tend to offer better pay compared to fast casual or smaller local eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education and food safety certifications can boost salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or holiday shifts can sometimes come with additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Cook in Honolulu
Starting a career as a Cook in Honolulu generally involves:
- Completion of Culinary Programs: For example, the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive culinary training including practical experience and theory.
- Alternative Educational Opportunities: The Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program offers education in cooking skills, baking, and restaurant management.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is important for safety and hygiene standards.
- State Permits: The Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit is mandatory for those working in food service establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Honolulu
Key employers hiring Cooks in Honolulu include:
- Marriott International
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
- Hyatt Hotels
- Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd
- Star of Honolulu
Establishments That Cooks in Honolulu Work At
Cooks in Honolulu typically find work in various types of establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have moderate pay but steady hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay more and may offer benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Cruise Lines: Provide unique work environments and often competitive compensation.
- Specialty and Fine Dining Restaurants: May offer higher salaries based on skill requirements and prestige.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with larger and upscale venues generally paying higher wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to the Cook position, consider roles such as these:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef positions, which share similar culinary responsibilities and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Honolulu
Cooks in Honolulu should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and employment regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides state-specific laws and resources.
- Local employment and regulatory information can be accessed through the City and County of Honolulu official website.