Cook Salary in Jacksonville, FL
Cooks in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.67 per hour, which translates to about $666.80 per week, $2,889.47 per month, and $34,673.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Jacksonville is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Jacksonville, FL?
The salary of a Cook in Jacksonville varies depending on experience, skills, and work environment. Here’s a breakdown of earning potential by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.67 | $666.80 | $2,889.47 | $34,673.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.99 | $919.60 | $3,976.53 | $47,739.20 |
Do Cooks in Jacksonville Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is generally performed behind the scenes in kitchens. Their income usually consists solely of hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Jacksonville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.67 per hour, or about $34,673.60 annually. This is the same as the average salary for Cooks in Jacksonville, FL which suggests competitive pay aligned with national standards.
Cooks in Jacksonville can expect salaries that meet the national average, with potential to earn more depending on factors such as experience and workplace.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jacksonville for Cooks
Nearby areas in Jacksonville offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Southside: $18.00 per hour
These neighborhoods tend to pay above the city average, likely reflecting different living costs and restaurant market demands.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Jacksonville?
Several factors affect how much a Cook earns in Jacksonville:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers better wages than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary courses or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Work and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may pay premiums.
- Local Competition: Areas with a higher concentration of dining establishments might offer competitive wages to attract talent.
How To Become a Cook in Jacksonville
To pursue a career as a Cook in Jacksonville, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Florida State College at Jacksonville provide comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Gain Hands-On Training: Jacksonville Job Corps Center Culinary Arts Program offers practical experience and certifications geared towards young adults.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a valuable credential demonstrating knowledge of food safety best practices.
- Consider Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation serves as an entry-level certification that recognizes fundamental culinary skills.
- Build Experience: Seek employment in restaurants or catering companies to develop hands-on skills and grow professionally.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Jacksonville
Jacksonville hosts a variety of well-known hospitality employers recruiting skilled Cooks, including:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Jacksonville
- Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
- The Capital Grille
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
Establishments That Cooks in Jacksonville Work At
Cooks in Jacksonville typically work across many establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide entry-level opportunities but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast-Casual Dining: Often faster-paced with benefits but somewhat lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Higher wages and advancement opportunities are common in upscale settings.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Salaries vary based on contract and establishment size.
The type of establishment can strongly influence salary levels, with fine dining and luxury hotels often paying more for experienced Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jacksonville for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, consider these related positions that share culinary skills and career pathways.
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Supervisor, each with distinct responsibilities and potential salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Jacksonville
Cooks in Jacksonville should understand relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper compliance and protect their rights.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Florida's official site offers resources relating to employment and labor laws in Florida.
- Local employment resources and regulations are available at the City of Jacksonville official website.