Cook Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Cooks in Minneapolis, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $780.00 per week, $3,380.00 per month, and $40,560.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Minneapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities for this essential role in the foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The salary of a Cook in Minneapolis varies depending on experience and skill level. Here is an overview of typical earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.97 | $638.80 | $2,763.47 | $33,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.62 | $1,064.80 | $4,600.53 | $55,378.00 |
Do Cooks in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work happens primarily in the kitchen away from direct customer service. Their compensation is typically based on hourly wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour and about $33,488 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Minneapolis earn a higher hourly wage and annual salary, reflecting the region’s demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Cooks:
- Minnetonka: $21.54 per hour
- Saint Paul: $20.01 per hour
If you are flexible with commuting, these areas may provide higher pay opportunities compared to Minneapolis itself.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Cook in Minneapolis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those specializing in certain cuisines often earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically pay higher wages than fast-food or casual dining.
- Location: Salaries might differ within Minneapolis and its suburbs due to cost of living and demand.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary training or food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working night, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with pay differentials.
How To Become a Cook in Minneapolis
Starting a career as a Cook in Minneapolis involves several key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Consider programs like those at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts or Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and valued by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships can provide hands-on experience to build skills.
- Earn Industry Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Culinarian (CC) demonstrate fundamental culinary competencies and can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Minneapolis
Some of the notable employers hiring Cooks in Minneapolis include:
- D'Amico & Partners
- Parasole Restaurant Holdings
- Blue Plate Restaurant Company
Establishments That Cooks in Minneapolis Work At
Cooks in Minneapolis work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady work but usually offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual & Quick Service: Often have higher turnover rates and entry-level pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Typically pay more and offer greater benefits and career advancement.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These often pay premium wages due to higher skill requirements.
The type of establishment greatly affects earning potential, with high-end venues generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Cooks
If you’re interested in similar hospitality careers, here are a few options to consider:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Cuisine, and Chef positions, which require related culinary skills with varying pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Minneapolis
Cooks should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to working in Minneapolis and Minnesota.
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website for information on state labor laws and workplace standards.
- For federal tax information and resources, check the Internal Revenue Service website.