Cook Salary in Little Rock, AR
Cooks in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $15.20 per hour, which translates to about $608.00 per week, $2,634.67 per month, and $31,616.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Little Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising labor market and increasing opportunities for those entering this field annually.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Cook in Little Rock varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.81 | $512.40 | $2,213.20 | $26,558.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,634.67 | $31,616.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.05 | $722.00 | $3,127.33 | $37,544.00 |
Do Cooks in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes. Their main income is through salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities handed directly by customers.
Cook Salary in Little Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.90 per hour, translating to about $35,152 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Little Rock earn slightly less, with $15.20 per hour and $31,616 annually. This difference reflects cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Cooks
In areas surrounding Little Rock, Cook salaries can vary slightly:
- Downtown: $17 per hour
- Riverdale: $16.50 per hour
Those willing to commute to Downtown or Riverdale might find better pay opportunities compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Little Rock?
The salary of a Cook in Little Rock can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized culinary skills tend to command better wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often pay higher salaries than fast-food or casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications like ServSafe or completing culinary programs can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Salary levels in Little Rock reflect the regional cost of living and job market competition.
How To Become a Cook in Little Rock
To become a Cook in Little Rock, consider the following steps to launch your career:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as Culinary Arts at UA - Pulaski Technical College, which offers hands-on learning and accredited training.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek apprenticeships or entry-level positions to develop essential cooking skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquire certifications like ServSafe which is crucial for food handling and safety compliance.
- Consider Additional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification demonstrates foundational culinary knowledge and is recognized by employers.
- Participate in Student-Run Restaurants: Opportunities like Le Culinaire allow aspiring Cooks to gain real-world experience in a professional setting.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Little Rock
Some of the prominent employers in Little Rock looking to hire Cooks include:
- Sullivan's Steakhouse
- On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
- Centers for Youth and Families
Establishments That Cooks in Little Rock Work At
Cooks in Little Rock find employment across a range of food service settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer solid entry-level and mid-level pay, often with steady hours.
- Fast-Casual Outlets: Provide faster-paced environments with moderate salaries and less extensive kitchen duties.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to offer higher pay due to required culinary skills and presentation standards.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often pay more and may offer additional benefits or advancement opportunities.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect the Cook's salary and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Cook, some similar positions include:
The related roles include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, all of which involve culinary preparation with varying levels of responsibility and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Little Rock
Cooks should keep informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and protections.
- Check the Arkansas Department of Labor site for state-specific regulations and workplace standards.