Cook Salary in Lowell, MA
Cooks in Lowell, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.39 per hour, which translates to about $775.60 per week, $3,360.93 per month, and $40,331.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Lowell is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the local culinary sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Lowell, MA?
The salary of a Cook in Lowell varies depending on experience and workplace, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.40 | $616.00 | $2,671.33 | $32,032.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.39 | $775.60 | $3,360.93 | $40,331.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.41 | $976.40 | $4,213.73 | $50,733.20 |
Do Cooks in Lowell Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work mainly in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings are primarily based on their wages or salary rather than tips.
Cook Salary in Lowell vs. National Average
The national average salary for Cooks stands at approximately $19.39 per hour, which aligns exactly with the average salary in Lowell, MA.
This suggests that Lowell offers competitive pay on par with the national market for this position, reflecting consistent standards in the culinary field.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lowell for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Cooks, including:
- Downtown: $21.50 per hour
- Belvidere: $20.80 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Lowell may earn higher wages than in Belvidere or the city at large, potentially due to more upscale dining options or higher demand.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Lowell?
Several key factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Lowell:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills may command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants or prestigious hotels typically offers better pay than casual or fast food places.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education and safety certifications can boost salary prospects.
- Shift and Hours: Night shifts or weekends may pay premiums, increasing overall earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Higher demand in certain neighborhoods or higher living costs can elevate pay levels.
How To Become a Cook in Lowell
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Lowell involves several steps:
- Educational Programs: Consider enrolling in the Culinary Arts Program at Greater Lowell Technical High School, which provides hands-on experience in kitchen operations, pastry production, and more.
- Associate Degrees: The Culinary Arts A.S. Degree at Middlesex Community College offers industry-focused coursework paired with business skills and practical culinary training.
- Certifications: Obtaining a ServSafe Certification is essential for food safety compliance, while an OSHA Certification for Culinary ensures you understand safety protocols in the kitchen.
- On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships help develop skills and can lead to career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Lowell
The following employers in Lowell are well-known for hiring skilled Cooks:
- Tavern in the Square
- Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
- Life Alive Cafe
Establishments That Cooks in Lowell Work At
Cooks in Lowell find work in a variety of dining establishments, each with its own pay scale and work environment:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work but often have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically pay entry-level wages but provide ample opportunities for experience.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end restaurants usually pay better wages and demand more refined culinary skills.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These can provide higher wages and benefits along with varied work opportunities.
The type and prestige of the establishment have a significant impact on a Cook’s salary in Lowell.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lowell for Cooks
If you are interested in expanding your career in hospitality, here are some roles similar to Cook:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, all of which encompass related culinary skills and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Lowell
Cooks should be aware of local and federal regulations that affect their work and earnings.
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for detailed information on state labor laws and employee rights.
- For federal labor laws, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's website to learn about workplace standards and regulations.