Cook Salary in New Orleans, LA
Cooks in New Orleans, LA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.30 per hour, which translates to about $732.00 per week, $3,172.00 per month, and $38,064.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in New Orleans is showing a positive growth rate of around 5% per year, suggesting a steady demand for culinary professionals in the city’s vibrant food scene.
How Much Does a Cook Make in New Orleans, LA?
The salary of a Cook in New Orleans varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different stages in a Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Cooks in New Orleans Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically focused in the kitchen and away from front-of-house interactions. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in New Orleans vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 annually.
Comparing this to New Orleans, Cooks have a higher hourly average of $18.30 and an annual salary of $38,064, reflecting the city’s robust culinary industry and possibly the higher cost of living and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Orleans for Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods where Cooks earn somewhat higher salaries include:
- French Quarter: $20.00 per hour
- Warehouse District: $19.00 per hour
These areas have bustling hospitality sectors with a concentration of restaurants and hotels, often paying a premium for experienced kitchen staff.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in New Orleans?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in New Orleans:
- Experience and skill level: More experienced Cooks, especially those with expertise in specific cuisines or techniques, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering services generally offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Work hours and shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may carry higher compensation due to increased demand or shift differentials.
- Certifications and training: Professional culinary certifications or food safety qualifications can enhance a Cook’s pay potential.
How To Become a Cook in New Orleans
Launching a career as a Cook in New Orleans can be supported through clear steps and training opportunities:
- Culinary education: Programs at institutions like the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) offer hands-on experience and skills development, helping to prepare individuals for kitchen roles.
- Food safety certification: Obtaining ServSafe Certification is often essential for working safely with food and meeting industry standards.
- Entry-level experience: Starting in assistant roles helps build practical skills and knowledge on the job.
- Networking and industry connections: Engaging with local culinary events and professionals can provide valuable opportunities for employment.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in New Orleans
The culinary scene in New Orleans includes several prestigious employers actively seeking skilled Cooks:
- Commander's Palace
- Emeril's Restaurant
- Saba
Establishments That Cooks in New Orleans Work At
Cooks find opportunities in a wide range of settings throughout New Orleans, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Often provide steady hours but typically lower wages compared to upscale venues.
- Fast casual and quick service: These settings prioritize volume and speed, usually with modest pay.
- Fine dining and upscale restaurants: Tend to offer higher wages and require greater skill levels.
- Hotels and catering companies: May provide stable employment with competitive compensation.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the salary, with fine dining and large-scale operations often offering the most lucrative pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Orleans for Cooks
If you’re exploring roles similar to Cook, the hospitality industry in New Orleans also offers a variety of related positions worth considering.
The roles listed include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each offering different responsibilities and pay scales within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in New Orleans
Cooks in New Orleans should be familiar with both federal and state labor regulations:
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website, offering guidance on wages, hours, and workplace rights.
- For Louisiana-specific labor laws and employment resources, the official Louisiana government site provides comprehensive information.