Cook Salary in Huntsville, AL
Cooks in Huntsville, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $12.04 per hour, which translates to about $481.60 per week, $2,086.93 per month, and $25,043.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Huntsville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Huntsville, AL?
The salary of a Cook in Huntsville varies based on experience level and skill. Below is an overview of typical earnings for different stages of a Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.04 | $481.60 | $2,086.93 | $25,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Huntsville Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is behind the scenes in food preparation. Their income is primarily based on their wages or salary rather than customer gratuities.
Cook Salary in Huntsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Huntsville earn somewhat less, with an average hourly wage of $12.04 and an annual salary around $25,043. This difference reflects local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntsville for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Huntsville: $15.50 per hour
- Madison: $17.60 per hour
Cooks seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in Madison, which offers a notably higher pay rate compared to Huntsville proper.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Huntsville?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Huntsville, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary techniques command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and hotels typically offer better wages than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Specialized Culinary Training: Skills in specific cuisines or cooking methods can increase salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with premium pay rates.
How To Become a Cook in Huntsville
To pursue a career as a Cook in Huntsville, consider these steps:
- Enroll in a Culinary Program: Schools like Calhoun Community College Culinary Arts Program and Drake State Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational training in cooking and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and American Culinary Federation Certification cultivate essential knowledge of food safety and professional credibility.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens help build practical skills and open doors to advancement.
For those interested in more about culinary education, official resources like the American Culinary Federation and the ServSafe program offer valuable information on certifications and courses.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Huntsville
Several notable employers in Huntsville actively seek qualified Cooks:
- Connors Steak & Seafood
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Tupelo Honey
Establishments That Cooks in Huntsville Work At
Cooks in Huntsville typically find employment at a variety of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast casual chains, fine dining venues, and catering companies.
Casual and fast casual restaurants often provide steady employment but tend to offer moderate wages. Fine dining establishments usually pay higher salaries due to the advanced skills required and more sophisticated menu offerings.
Catering companies and hotel kitchens may also employ Cooks and can offer competitive pay and benefits depending on the scale and prestige of the operation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntsville for Cooks
If you are exploring career options related to the Cook profession, here are some similar roles that might interest you:
These include the Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef positions, which involve progressive responsibilities and may offer higher earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Huntsville
Understanding the local and federal labor laws is essential for Cooks to know their rights and obligations.
- Information about Alabama state-specific labor laws, including wage standards and working conditions, can be found on the Alabama.gov website.
- For federal employment regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website at dol.gov offers comprehensive resources.