Cook Salary in Mobile, AL
Cooks in Mobile, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $10.90 per hour, which translates to about $436.00 per week, $1,889.33 per month, and $22,672.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Mobile is growing moderately with a 5% annual increase in demand, indicating a positive outlook for those seeking employment in culinary roles within the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Mobile, AL?
The salary for Cooks in Mobile varies based on experience levels. Entry-level Cooks earn the minimum wage, while top earners can make significantly more as skills and experience improve.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.90 | $436.00 | $1,883.33 | $22,672.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.65 | $826.00 | $3,573.67 | $42,952.00 |
Do Cooks in Mobile Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is typically behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation usually comes exclusively from hourly wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Mobile vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Mobile earn less, at $10.90 per hour and $22,672 per year, which is influenced by regional cost of living and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mobile for Cooks
Nearby areas to Mobile offer some variation in pay for Cooks:
- Downtown Mobile: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown Mobile: $17.60 per hour
Cooks in Midtown Mobile tend to earn the highest wages, with Downtown Mobile also offering better pay than the general Mobile area.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Mobile?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Mobile:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with stronger culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining or high-end restaurants usually pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays often results in shift differentials that boost pay.
How To Become a Cook in Mobile
Becoming a Cook in Mobile can be facilitated by taking specific steps to build skills and credentials.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Coastal Alabama Community College offers a Culinary Arts Program that provides hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Attend Culinary Training at Bishop State Community College: Their Culinary Arts Program emphasizes food preparation and kitchen operations, preparing students for culinary careers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a widely recognized credential that enhances employability.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates cooking skills and can advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Mobile
Several employers in Mobile are known for hiring Cooks, including:
- USA Health
- Mediterranean Sandwich Co.
- Tarantino Properties, Inc.
Establishments That Cooks in Mobile Work At
Cooks in Mobile typically find employment at a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer a steady work environment with usually moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These provide higher volume environments but usually pay closer to minimum wage.
- Hotels and Healthcare Facilities: Such places may offer better wages and more structured benefits.
- Catering and Event Services: Jobs here can vary widely but may include opportunities for more specialized cooking.
The type of establishment often affects the pay scale, with upscale or specialized venues generally providing higher earnings than fast food or casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mobile for Cook
If you're interested in careers related to Cooking, consider exploring opportunities in other culinary or hospitality roles that share skills and responsibilities.
These roles include Line Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie, each offering various levels of specialization and potential salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Mobile
Cooks should be informed about federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Explore federal labor laws and regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For information on Alabama state labor laws and workforce resources, visit the Alabama Department of Labor.
- Details on local regulations, business licenses, and community resources can be found at the City of Mobile official site.