Cook Salary in Norfolk, VA
Cooks in Norfolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.60 per hour, which translates to about $624.00 per week, $2,704.00 per month, and $32,448.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Cook in Norfolk varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.11 | $524.40 | $2,274.40 | $27,292.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.60 | $624.00 | $2,704.00 | $32,448.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.57 | $742.80 | $3,218.80 | $38,565.60 |
Do Cooks in Norfolk Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly consists of their salary or hourly wages without tip supplements.
Cook Salary in Norfolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.60 per hour, translating to about $32,448 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in Norfolk earn about the national average of $15.60 per hour and $32,448 annually, indicating competitive pay aligned with national standards for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Cooks
Examining payrolls in areas near Norfolk reveals slight variations in Cook salaries:
- Downtown Norfolk: $16.50 per hour
- Ghent: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in Ghent can expect the highest pay among nearby areas, slightly above Downtown Norfolk, reflecting the local market and demand.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can expect to earn in Norfolk:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with diverse culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary based on working in casual dining, fast casual, or fine dining settings, with upscale places typically offering better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Some employers offer shift differentials for evening or weekend work, enhancing overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications can improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional demand for culinary staff and cost of living influence salary scales.
How To Become a Cook in Norfolk
Pursuing a career as a Cook in Norfolk involves several practical steps:
- Formal Education: Enrolling in a program such as the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program, offering an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts, provides foundational skills based on industry standards.
- Specialized Programs: The Culinary Institute of Virginia offers diverse programs including Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts, Culinary Nutrition, and Food Service Management to broaden culinary expertise.
- Certification: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for demonstrating food safety knowledge.
- Professional Recognition: The Certified Culinarian (CC) designation from the American Culinary Federation validates competency and professionalism.
- Hands-On Experience: Many Cooks gain skills through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in restaurants.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Norfolk
Some of the prominent employers seeking skilled Cooks in Norfolk include:
- Olive Garden
- Chef's Kitchen & Cocktails
- Chili's
Establishments That Cooks in Norfolk Work At
Cooks typically work in a variety of food service environments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment with competitive wages depending on the popularity and scale of the establishment.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often have consistent but somewhat lower pay compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end establishments generally pay more and may require advanced culinary skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These offer opportunities for varied work and sometimes better benefits.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary, with fine dining and hotels often providing higher pay for experienced Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Cooks
If you are considering related roles in hospitality, here are a few positions similar to Cook that might interest you:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Head Chef, which involve related culinary skills and diverse responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Norfolk
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Cooks working in Norfolk to ensure compliance and proper management of their rights.
- Information about federal labor laws can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor regulations are available at the Virginia Employment Commission.
- The City of Norfolk official website provides local employment resources and updates.