Cook Salary in Long Beach, CA
Cooks in Long Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.39 per hour, which translates to about $815.60 per week, $3,534.27 per month, and $42,411.20 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Long Beach is looking up with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Long Beach varies depending on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of the earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.39 | $815.60 | $3,534.27 | $42,411.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.94 | $957.60 | $4,136.53 | $49,795.20 |
Do Cooks in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation behind the scenes, and they rarely have direct customer interaction. Their income mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn around $16.00 per hour, which is about $33,280 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Long Beach earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $20.39 and an annual salary of $42,411.20.
This higher pay reflects the cost of living and local demand for culinary professionals in the Long Beach area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Cook salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $21.50 per hour
- Belmont Shore: $22.00 per hour
Cooks working in Belmont Shore tend to earn the highest salaries in the vicinity, followed closely by Downtown Long Beach, making these locations attractive for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several factors contribute to how much a Cook can earn in Long Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with specialized culinary skills or knowledge of diverse cuisines tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally earn more than those in fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety licenses can boost a Cook’s earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening shifts or overtime can result in higher pay through shift differentials.
- Local Economic Factors: The overall demand for food service professionals and living costs in Long Beach influence salary rates.
How To Become a Cook in Long Beach
To start a career as a Cook in Long Beach, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Long Beach City College offers a Culinary Arts Associate in Science (AS) program that provides essential hands-on skills and industry safety knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card can meet employer requirements and enhance job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or line cook helps develop skills and confidence in a professional kitchen.
- Network and Apply: Engaging with local culinary communities and applying for positions at diverse establishments can open doors to employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Long Beach
Some of the leading employers in Long Beach seeking skilled Cooks include:
- US Department of Veterans Affairs
- The Salvation Army
- Hyatt
Establishments That Cooks in Long Beach Work At
Cooks in Long Beach commonly find employment across various food service establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often offer steady work but may pay less than high-end venues.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employment in these places can offer higher pay and better benefits.
- Catering and Banquet Services: These may provide variable hours but opportunities for skill growth.
- Institutional Settings: Hospitals, schools, and government facilities may hire cooks with different pay scales and stability.
The type of establishment affects factors such as salary, hours, and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Cooks
If you’re interested in roles related to being a Cook, consider the following similar careers:
These positions include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Head Chef, each with different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Long Beach
Cooks in Long Beach should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their employment obligations.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor standards and employment information.
- For California-specific regulations, refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for workplace laws and safety guidelines.