Cook Salary in Inglewood, CA
Cooks in Inglewood, CA, in 2025 earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Inglewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Inglewood, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Inglewood varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview of typical earnings across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Inglewood Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their roles focus mainly on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation typically relies solely on their salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Inglewood vs. National Average
Across the U.S., Cooks earn an average of around $17.00 per hour, which corresponds to about $35,360.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Inglewood earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00. This reflects regional differences in **cost of living** and **demand for culinary skills**.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Inglewood for Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Inglewood: $19.50 per hour
- North Inglewood: $20.00 per hour
Cooks working in North Inglewood tend to earn the highest wages, followed closely by those in Downtown Inglewood.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Inglewood?
Experience can greatly impact a Cook’s earnings; seasoned professionals tend to command higher pay.
Skills and specialization, such as expertise in certain cuisines or kitchen equipment, often lead to better compensation.
The type of establishment plays a role — fine dining or upscale restaurants typically offer more lucrative wages than fast food or casual dining.
Additional factors include work hours and shift types, with some shifts offering premiums, and local labor market conditions.
How To Become a Cook in Inglewood
Starting a career as a Cook in Inglewood involves several important steps for gaining the necessary skills and credentials.
Consider enrolling in local culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, which provides hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
Another excellent option is the Culinary Arts Program at West Los Angeles College, focusing on foundational culinary skills and practical experience.
Obtaining relevant certifications is also beneficial. The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices required by many employers in California.
Additionally, the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification that showcases a Cook’s professional abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Inglewood
Several notable employers in Inglewood regularly seek experienced Cooks:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- The Serving Spoon
- Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen
Establishments That Cooks in Inglewood Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a variety of establishment types, including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, food trucks, and institutional cafeterias.
The type of establishment can influence earnings significantly; for example, Cooks working in fine dining or specialized kitchens often earn higher wages compared to those in fast food or quick-service settings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Inglewood for Cooks
If you are interested in related roles, consider the following careers that complement the Cook position:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each offering unique opportunities within the culinary and hospitality industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Inglewood
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Cooks working in Inglewood.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information about workplace rights and standards.
- The California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations offers guidance on state-specific labor rules.
- For local regulations and services, the Inglewood city government website provides resources tailored to workers in the area.