Cook Salary in Kansas City, KS
Cooks in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $14.61 per hour, which translates to about $584.40 per week, $2,532.40 per month, and $30,388.80 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Kansas City is growing positively at around 5% annually, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area year over year.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Cook in Kansas City varies based on experience and employer, but the general pay scale is as follows:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.49 | $499.60 | $2,165.07 | $25,984.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.61 | $584.40 | $2,532.40 | $30,388.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.09 | $683.60 | $2,955.07 | $35,527.20 |
Do Cooks in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since they primarily work behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mainly consists of hourly wages or salary without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Across the United States, Cooks earn approximately $18.00 per hour, or about $37,440 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Kansas City earn less on an hourly and annual basis, with about $14.61 per hour and $30,388.80 yearly. This discrepancy is influenced by local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Cooks
Nearby locations offer slightly different pay scales for Cooks:
- Leawood: $17.35 per hour
- Overland Park: $16.79 per hour
Cooks working in Leawood can expect higher wages, followed by those in Overland Park, compared to Kansas City.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Kansas City?
The salary of a Cook in Kansas City is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More practiced Cooks with diverse culinary skills generally earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels may pay more compared to casual dining or fast-food operations.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of culinary programs and food safety certifications can boost employability and wages.
- Work Schedule: Shifts with higher demand or extended hours sometimes offer premium pay or bonuses.
- Local Market Demand: The growth and size of the hospitality industry in Kansas City directly affect salary potential.
How To Become a Cook in Kansas City
To pursue a career as a Cook in Kansas City, aspiring professionals can follow these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational and hands-on training tailored to cooking roles.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a key credential that educates food service workers on safe practices and is often required by employers.
- Obtain Culinary Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate commitment to professional culinary standards and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in various kitchen settings build necessary skills and industry familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Kansas City
The following well-known establishments actively seek qualified Cooks in Kansas City:
- The Capital Grille
- Jack Stack Barbecue
- The American Restaurant
Establishments That Cooks in Kansas City Work At
Cooks in Kansas City find positions in a diverse range of hospitality venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Steady opportunities with moderate pay and advancement potential.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically fast-paced environments with competitive entry wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher earning potential linked to skill and presentation requirements.
- Hotels and Event Catering: May offer varied shifts and additional benefits.
The type of establishment impacts a Cook’s salary, with premium venues generally paying more due to higher skill demands and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Cooks
For those interested in roles similar to Cook, consider these careers in the hospitality sector:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which share overlapping culinary skills and may offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Kansas City
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities ensures Cooks in Kansas City know their rights and obligations:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor regulations and worker protections.
- The State of Kansas official site provides resources regarding state-specific labor laws, employment rights, and taxation.