Cook Salary in Lansing, MI
Cooks in Lansing, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $640.00 per week, $2,773.33 per month, and $33,280.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Lansing is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary job market.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Lansing, MI?
The salary of a Cook in Lansing varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a snapshot of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.95 | $558.00 | $2,414.00 | $29,016.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.36 | $734.40 | $3,165.60 | $37,996.80 |
Do Cooks in Lansing Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen and not customer-facing. Their earnings come mainly from their hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Lansing vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, translating to approximately $33,280.00 annually.
In Lansing, Cook salaries align closely with the national average, indicating the local market offers competitive pay rates consistent with broader U.S. standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lansing for Cooks
If you are considering nearby areas to Lansing, the pay for Cooks varies slightly:
- East Lansing: $16.50 per hour
- Okemos: $16.00 per hour
Cooks working in East Lansing can expect slightly higher hourly wages compared to Lansing and Okemos, making it an attractive option for skilled culinary workers.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Lansing?
The salary of a Cook in Lansing can be influenced by several important factors.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better pay compared to casual or fast food environments.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary training or certifications can boost salary potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts may increase pay through differential rates.
- Location: Nearby cities or areas with higher costs of living or demand may offer better compensation.
How To Become a Cook in Lansing
Starting a career as a Cook in Lansing involves several key steps.
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Lansing Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Pursue Hospitality Studies: Enrolling in programs such as the Michigan State University Hospitality Business Program can offer valuable knowledge in hospitality and culinary arts.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Certification (required by many employers) and the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation signal professionalism and safety compliance.
- Gain Work Experience: Beginning as a kitchen assistant or line cook and advancing through practical experience is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Lansing
Lansing hosts a variety of employers regularly hiring skilled Cooks, including:
- Applebee's
- P.F. Chang's
- Morrison Healthcare
Establishments That Cooks in Lansing Work At
Cooks find employment in diverse foodservice establishments in Lansing.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often have steady hours and a moderate pay scale.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Positions here might pay less but can offer faster advancement and consistent schedules.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually provide higher wages and benefits due to more formal service demands.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Require adherence to strict food safety rules and may offer stable employment and benefits.
The type of establishment impacts not only salary but also work environment and growth opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lansing for Cooks
If you are exploring jobs similar to Cook, consider these related roles that utilize culinary skills:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook roles, offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Lansing
Cooks working in Lansing should be aware of labor laws and taxation regulations to manage their employment rights effectively.
- Information about Michigan state labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace standards can be found on the official Michigan government website.
- Federal labor regulations and guidance on employment standards are available via the U.S. Department of Labor website.