Cook Salary in Manchester, NH
Cooks in Manchester, NH, in 2025, earn approximately $18.82 per hour, which translates to about $752.80 per week, $3,262.13 per month, and $39,145.60 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Manchester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this culinary role.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Manchester, NH?
The salary of a Cook in Manchester can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Manchester Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes and not customer-facing. Their compensation mainly comes from their wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Manchester vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $17.92 per hour, translating to about $37,273.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Manchester earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $18.82 and an annual salary of $39,145.60.
This higher pay reflects local labor market conditions and the demand for skilled Cooks in the Manchester area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Manchester for Cooks
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, Cook salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- North End: $19.00 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Manchester can expect the highest pay, with North End also offering competitive wages compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Manchester?
Several factors influence how much a Cook earns in Manchester, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays better than fast-food or casual dining locations.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those working evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Manchester affect salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Manchester
Pursuing a career as a Cook in Manchester involves several steps to improve your chances and earning potential:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Manchester Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Advanced Studies: Southern New Hampshire University Culinary Management Program provides education combining culinary arts with business skills.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures you meet industry standards and increase employability.
- Professional Certification: Earning credentials such as Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate your professional competency.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Manchester
Prominent employers in Manchester looking for skilled Cooks include:
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- Glendale Dining Services
- Courtyard Manchester
Establishments That Cooks in Manchester Work At
Cooks in Manchester find employment across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide steady employment with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Typically offer entry-level positions with room for growth but generally lower pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often pay higher wages due to the demand for quality and experience.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as schools and hospitals where cooks may work regular hours with benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with fine dining and hotel kitchens usually paying more than casual or fast-food places.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Manchester for Cooks
If you're considering roles similar to a Cook, here are a few related positions worth exploring:
These include Head Chef, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which share culinary responsibilities and career pathways with Cook roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Manchester
Cooks in Manchester should be informed about local and federal labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor regulations.
- The New Hampshire Department of Labor website provides state-specific guidelines and employment standards.
- For local resources, the City of Manchester official website offers employment assistance and regulations.