Cook Salary in Huntington, WV
Cooks in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $15.84 per hour, which translates to about $633.60 per week, $2,745.60 per month, and $32,947.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Huntington is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Cook in Huntington varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical pay across entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,739.20 | $32,947.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Huntington Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since they work mainly behind the scenes preparing food. Their income primarily comes from their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Huntington enjoy slightly higher pay, earning around $15.84 per hour and $32,947.20 annually.
This wage difference may reflect regional cost of living and local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Huntington: $16.50 per hour
- Southside: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in the Southside area can expect to earn the highest wages close to Huntington.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Huntington?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Huntington:
- Experience and Expertise: Cooks with years of experience or specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often offers better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary courses and food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Schedules: Evening or weekend shifts may provide shift differential pay, increasing overall earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Regional economic factors can lead to wage variations within the city.
How To Become a Cook in Huntington
Starting a career as a Cook in Huntington involves several important steps:
- Enrolling in Culinary Programs: Consider programs like the Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offers practical experience and industry-recognized certifications.
- Obtaining Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Safety Certification are essential for a career in food preparation.
- Gaining Hands-On Experience: Many Cooks start by working as kitchen assistants or prep cooks to learn essential skills on the job.
- Networking and Job Searching: Connecting with local restaurants and culinary professionals can open doors to employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Huntington
Several well-known establishments in Huntington actively hire Cooks, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Fat Patty's
- The Shed Restaurant
Establishments That Cooks in Huntington Work At
Cooks are employed across a range of establishment types that impact their salary and work experience:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: These venues provide steady employment but often offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Pay here may be lower, but jobs are often more accessible for beginners.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These typically offer higher pay reflecting greater skill demands and prestige.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger organizations can offer competitive wages, benefits, and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment influences not only salary but also the complexity of duties and chances for career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, consider exploring related careers that require culinary skills:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager roles, which may offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Huntington
Cooks should be aware of federal and state labor regulations and tax responsibilities:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the Department of Labor website.
- Specific West Virginia labor laws and resources can be found on the state government website.