Cook Salary in New Bedford, MA
Cooks in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.64 per hour, which translates to about $705.60 per week, $3,057.60 per month, and $36,691.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks in New Bedford is looking positive with a 5% growth rate per year, indicating increased demand and opportunities for employment in this field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Cook in New Bedford varies with experience and skill, and here is an approximate breakdown of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.31 | $612.40 | $2,652.27 | $31,828.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.64 | $705.60 | $3,057.60 | $36,691.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.33 | $813.20 | $3,501.87 | $42,086.40 |
Do Cooks in New Bedford Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in food preparation behind the scenes. Any extra income generally comes from their wages alone.
Cook Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Cooks is about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to around $30,160 annually.
When compared to the national average, Cooks in New Bedford earn more, with an hourly rate of $17.64 and an annual salary of about $36,691.20. This reflects local wage factors and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly higher pay for Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- North End: $19.00 per hour
Cooks seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in these areas while factoring in commute and living costs.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in New Bedford?
Various factors affect the salary of a Cook in New Bedford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills or certifications earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries differ between fast food, casual dining, and upscale restaurants.
- Work Shift and Hours: Night shifts or working during holidays may include shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Cost of living and demand in New Bedford influence pay rates significantly.
How To Become a Cook in New Bedford
Getting started as a Cook in New Bedford involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Bristol Community College Culinary Arts Program which offers hands-on and theoretical instruction essential to the profession.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Certification are widely recognized and required for food handling and safety compliance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen positions helps build foundational skills for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in New Bedford
Some notable employers looking for qualified Cooks in New Bedford include:
- McDonald's
- Southcoast Health
- Domino's
Establishments That Cooks in New Bedford Work At
Cooks commonly find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Provide steady hours, often with standardized procedures affecting pay scales.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Medium wage level with some opportunity for advancement and skill development.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Often offer higher wages and require more advanced culinary skills.
The establishment type notably impacts a Cook’s earnings and career trajectory.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Cook, there are related hospitality positions that might interest you.
Positions like Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook share related skills and offer alternative career paths in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in New Bedford
Cooks should be informed about both state and federal labor laws to understand their rights, work conditions, and tax obligations.
- You can find detailed information about Massachusetts labor laws at the official Massachusetts government website.
- For overarching federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.